Dark Sons by Nikki Grimes
by Sam Arnold-Boyd on Dec.01, 2007, under Coretta Scott King, Free Verse, Grief, Historical Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Real life, Sam's Reviews, Spiritual, YRCA
Who would like this book? Teens who like novels written in free verse with two storylines, one ancient and one contemporary.
Why? Nikki Grimes sets the story of Sam, a contemporary teenager who is angry at his father for leaving his mother for a younger woman, against the ancient story of Ishmael. Sam’s pain over his father’s actions, his rejection of his step-mother, and his faith come across in a compelling manner with Grimes’ free verse. Sam’s sense of being abandoned by his father parallels Ishmael’s experience when Abraham turns him out with his mother Hager. Faith is an integral part in the journey of both young men. This element is presented in an even way that respects all beliefs. It’s not a surprise that this book is a Young Reader’s Choice Nominee (Senior Division, though it could have fit in the Middle Division just as easily) and a Coretta Scott King Honor Book.
The details: 216 p. 2005
