My Woodson Experience.

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My take on Jacqueline Woodson, & her many publications. 

I loved how much truth Woodson was able to bring out in her books, whether they be picture books or novels, I could hear her voice loud and clear, illustrating her views on the world, and the changes she would like to see happen. She is so young, but yet, she has published so many quality books. I love the way she brings her own life into her books and shares her raw experiences with us as the readers.

I read two of her books, first I read her novel “Dear One” which was a controversial book dealing with teenage pregnancy, divorce, race, abortion, alcoholism and SES differences. This book, which could easily be worrisome to parents, spoke the truth about the realties that some people have, and I say, why not? I think it is important to expose our kids to the realities they may have to deal with in life, whether it is their own, or the neighbor’s down the street. Why shelter them from such lifestyles, why create fear and shame in them? I loved her book "Dear One", end of story, it was great! The next book I read of hers was a picture book called “The Other Side”. This book was a beautiful story that ended in the acceptance of having friends of a different races. Although most of the story was sad and painful, the ending was bright, and the bringing together of children in unity was simply delightful.

Woodson speaks truth on every page, and through every word. It is because of her honesty that I like her so much. Whether the truth is happy or ugly, I want to know it, and Woodson understands that. I connected with a lot of the sorrows and struggles of her books, as well as, a lot of the joys and discoveries. There is nothing better than finding a great author who writes in ways you can connect with, and Woodson is one of those authors for me!  

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For more information about Jacqueline Woodson, click here.