Piecing Me Together by Renée Watson follows Jade Butler, an African American high school student on scholarship at an elite private school, as she navigates racial and socioeconomic challenges. Encouraged to join the Woman to Woman mentorship program, Jade initially struggles with her mentor while facing everyday racism. Through advocating for herself and others, Jade aims to combine her artistic passion with social justice. The book addresses experiences of racism and implicit bias.

Renée Watson's Piecing Me Together is hailed for its candid exploration of race, class, and identity through the eyes of a young Black girl. Praised for its authentic voice and relatable protagonist, it captures the complexities of coming of age. Some critics note a slower narrative pace, but overall, it's celebrated for its poignant, empowering message.

A reader who would enjoy Piecing Me Together by Renée Watson is likely a young adult interested in themes of race, identity, and social justice. Fans of Angie Thomas' The Hate U Give or Jason Reynolds' Long Way Down will appreciate the nuanced exploration of a young Black girl's challenges and growth.

Inspirational / Contemplative / Emotional / Hopeful / Heartwarming

- Piecing Me Together won the Coretta Scott King Award and was also named a Newbery Honor Book in 2018.
- The author, Renée Watson, is not only an acclaimed writer but also a poet and educator, often blending her passion for storytelling with social issues.
- The novel addresses themes of race, class, and identity and has been used in educational settings to spark discussions on these topics.

**Jade Butler**  
A young black girl attending an elite private school on scholarship, navigating the challenges of cultural discrimination and learning self-advocacy. She lives with her hardworking mother and her uncle in North Portland.

**Maxine Winters**  
Jade’s mentor from Woman to Woman, an upper-middle-class black woman and St. Francis alum, whose relationship with Jade evolves from viewing her as someone to be fixed to listening to her needs.

**Sam Franklin**  
One of Jade's best friends at St. Francis, a white scholarship student from a predominantly white neighborhood, who learns to better understand racial issues affecting Jade.

**Jade's Mother**  
A divorced woman working two jobs to support her family, who has a close relationship with Jade and sees the potential for learning in imperfect circumstances.

**E.J. Butler**  
Jade's 20-year-old uncle and her mother's younger brother, a college drop-out who is finding his way as a local deejay after experiencing a personal tragedy.

Renée Watson

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Chapters 41-60

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