Piecing Me Together

Sixteen-year-old Jade, an African-American from a poor neighbourhood in Portland, is given many opportunities to succeed, including attending a predominantly white private school. Jade is grateful but also resentful as she can’t understand why she needs these opportunities and why others make her feel that what she values – her family, friends, culture, and neighbourhood – is not enough. Jade learns to piece herself together from what she believes in and what she learns on her journey of self-discovery. This contemporary novel thoughtfully addresses racism, culture, identity, racial profiling, and socio-economic status. Facilitated discussion recommended.