Darkness Before Dawn by Sharon M. Draper receives a mix of praise and criticism. Readers commend its realistic portrayal of complex teen issues and strong character development. However, some feel the plot is predictable and the pacing uneven. Overall, it's seen as a compelling yet sometimes challenging read that effectively addresses serious themes.

Fans of contemporary young adult fiction tackling real-life issues will appreciate Darkness Before Dawn by Sharon M. Draper. Similar to novels like Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson and Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher, it engages readers with its intense, emotive exploration of identity, trauma, and resilience.

Darkness Before Dawn by Sharon M. Draper follows high school senior Keisha Montgomery as she navigates the aftermath of her boyfriend's suicide and faces new challenges, including threat from a manipulative student-teacher, while drawing on her friendships and family support to cope and grow. The book addresses themes such as loss, trauma, and recovery for teenagers. This novel contains the sensitive topic of date rape.

Sharon M. Draper

Middle grade

Novel

Hazelwood High

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read Darkness Before Dawn | SuperSummary

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Overview

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Darkness Before Dawn Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-5

Darkness Before Dawn Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-11

Darkness Before Dawn Chapters 6-11 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 12-16

Darkness Before Dawn Chapters 12-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 17-22 and Epilogue

Darkness Before Dawn Chapter 17-22 and Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Darkness Before Dawn Character Analysis

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Themes

Darkness Before Dawn Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Darkness Before Dawn Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Darkness Before Dawn Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Darkness Before Dawn Essay Topics

Darkness Before Dawn

Before You Read

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Book Details