A review by empathephant
If You Come Softly by Jacqueline Woodson

sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.0

 I can imagine that if I had read this book in high school it would have sparked a reading journey to help me better understand race and racism in the US, and I wish that I had so I could have been exposed to more of those ideas earlier. It had lovely writing and characters, but having recently read The Hate You Give, it didn't feel as eye-opening and life changing for me. Still, I am so, so grateful there are stories like these and I'd 100% recommend it as a good first introduction of these topics to young audiences. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings