Woodson, Jacqueline. Remember Us. Penguin Random House/Nancy Paulsen, 10/2023. 192pp. Fiction. Trade $18.99. 978-0-3995-4546-7. GRADES 5–9. OUTSTANDING.
This book drops us into 1970s Brooklyn, where the majority-Black Bushwick neighborhood is dubbed “The Matchbox” because of the number of houses that are burning down. Against this backdrop, seventh grader Sage is just trying to enjoy her summer playing basketball, hanging out with friends, and navigating friendships with both girls and boys. Woodson creates a setting where Sage and other children of Black families sleep with their shoes and a bag at the door knowing they may need to run out of a burning apartment—while just blocks away, there are brick houses of wealthier white families that aren’t going anywhere. In her unique poetic style of short, lyrical chapters where every word matters, Woodson creates a portrait of loss and grief amidst friendships, community, and joy. A masterful examination of mature concepts (loss, death, sexuality) presented with childlike directness and wonder.
Rachael Reiley—Hillcrest Elementary K–8 / Oakland Unified School District