Kimberly Brubaker Bradley's Fighting Words excels in portraying the resilience of two sisters overcoming trauma with courageous storytelling and humor. Critics praise its honest, sensitive handling of abuse and foster care. Some reviewers note the heavy topics might be intense for younger readers, but its uplifting message prevails, making it a powerful, essential read.

A reader who would enjoy Fighting Words by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is typically aged 10-14, appreciates emotionally resonant stories addressing resilience and trauma, and may have enjoyed Wonder by R.J. Palacio and The War That Saved My Life by the same author.

In Fighting Words by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, sisters Della and Suki escape an abusive and neglectful past and lean on each other to navigate lingering trauma. As they settle into a new foster home, Della learns about Suki's experiences with abuse. Following Suki's suicide attempt, Della deconstructs the stigma of abuse and discovers the true power of sisterhood. This book contains graphic depictions of child sexual abuse, neglect, drug addiction, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.

Emotional / Challenging / Hopeful / Inspirational / Contemplative

- Fighting Words by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley received a 2021 Newbery Honor, which is a prestigious award recognizing distinguished children’s literature.
- The author Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is also known for her award-winning book The War That Saved My Life, which has been highly praised for its sensitive handling of complex themes.

**Della Roberts**  
A 10-year-old girl who narrates her own story, showing resilience and courage as she works through her traumatic childhood experiences and learns to stand up for herself and others.

**Suki Roberts**  
Della's older sister and main caretaker, who has endured significant personal challenges while caring for Della and must confront her own past to heal.

**Francine**  
The foster mother to Della and Suki, who supports the girls in their recovery by providing a safe environment and advocating for their mental health needs.

**Teena**  
Suki's best friend and a source of support for both sisters, who helps Della and Suki as they navigate their complex emotions and personal histories.

Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Fighting Words Background

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Chapters 1-10

Fighting Words Chapters 1-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-20

Fighting Words Chapters 11-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-26

Fighting Words Chapters 21-26 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 27-36

Fighting Words Chapters 27-36 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 37-47

Fighting Words Chapters 37-47 Summary & Analysis

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Fighting Words Character Analysis

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Fighting Words Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Fighting Words Important Quotes

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Fighting Words

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