Junebug: A Novel

by Wilson Edward Reed

A fictionalized account of Wilson Edward Reed, PhD’s experience growing up Black in the South during the 1950’s and 60’s, Junebug is a middle-grade novel that shows how to move beyond hardships, like those many faced while living under Jim Crow.  Full of humor and heartache, Junebug depicts a young person’s journey to find self-worth despite American society’s onslaught of negative messaging determined to define one’s identity and future—the kind that can come from any side. The story follows Junebug’s exploits with his friends, the loss of his mother, and his struggles with racial discrimination, before he sets his sights beyond Mississippi. After taking the 2,600 mile bus journey to Seattle, Junebug is encouraged by his three aunts to earn a college degree, all while his spiritual and emotional growth is on display.  Like the Sankofa bird, Junebug is able to make peace with his past and use that knowledge to move forward as he takes responsibility for his mistakes and forgives those who hurt him. Junebug shows how familial support and community involvement can help motivated individuals rise above anger and discrimination and discover the life of their dreams.

218 pages, Paperback

Published October 10, 2023

Reviews

[Cara Ball · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book for the tweens. I picked it up because I wanted to see the author when he visited campus but because of work obligations, I couldn't get away in time to meet him. This is a quick but good read about Wilson Edward Reed and his early part of his life as a young boy in Mississippi and as a young adult in Seattle. What an amazing life he has led and it was interesting to learn of events which are now considered historical but impacted specific individuals.

Mr. Reed attended the University of Washington at a time when programs which are currently embedded in the day-to-day rhythm were just beginning. The background behind those programs were not as clear to me until I read this story. For those who know Seattle and bus routes, it was fun to learn some of those bus routes and numbers have not changed!

[Lisa Ard · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an engaging memoir from Wilson Edward Reed! He captures the voice of a young boy growing up in a segregated South, aware of what no child should experience. The memoir moves forward in time, blending humor, disappointment, joy, frustration, ambition, anger... basically asking the reader to dive into another's life. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and feel I know this author a bit better.