Bronx Masquerade by Nikki Grimes
published in 2002 by Dial Books (New York, NY).
Summary
Student's in Mr. Ward's class are studying the Harlem Renaissance and end up holding Open Mics on Fridays where everyone in the class can read their poetry. The class learns about the power of poetry as they learn more about themselves and each other.
Impressions
I was really surprised by how much I liked this book. I thought it was just going to be a collection of poems, but it has a great story and is extremely character driven. There are a lot of different perspectives that the reader is exposed to, and the character development is great.
Reviews
"Readers will become immersed in the lives of these students with their natural teen-speak: 'And guess what? that white boy can flow. Makes you kinda wonder 'bout his family tree, now don't it?' Grimes addresses many of today's teen issues through the characters' unforgettable voices and poems...this book will be an exciting addition to urban public and school libraries and will serve well in teen poetry classes, speaking to the poet in every teen who picks it up." --Beth Gilbert. (2002). Voice of Youth Advocates. Retrieved from Bowker's Books in Print Professional database.
"A flowing, rhythmic portrait of the diversity and individuality of teen characters in a classroom in Anywhere, U.S.A...Competent and reluctant readers alike will recognize and empathize with these teens. As always, Grimes gives young people exactly what they're looking for-real characters who show them they are not along." --Lynn Evarts. (2002). School Library Journal. Retrieved from Bowker's Books in Print Professional database.
Uses
I would love to use Bronx Masquerade in an adult or teen book club. There is a lot that can be discussed with topics ranging from identity to teen pregnancy. After the discussion there could be a poetry slam. I want to see this happen!
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