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Piecing Me Together
A timely and powerful story about a teen girl from a poor neighborhood striving for success, from acclaimed author Renée Watson.
Jade believes she must get out of her neighborhood if she’s ever going to succeed. Her mother says she has to take every opportunity. She has. She accepted a scholarship to a mostly-white private school and even Saturday morning test prep opportunities. But some opportunities feel more demeaning than helpful. Like an invitation to join Women to Women, a mentorship program for “at-risk” girls. Except really, it’s for black girls. From “bad” neighborhoods.
But Jade doesn’t need support. And just because her mentor is black doesn’t mean she understands Jade. And maybe there are some things Jade could show these successful women about the real world and finding ways to make a real difference.
Friendships, race, privilege, identity—this compelling and thoughtful story explores the issues young women face.
Jade believes she must get out of her neighborhood if she’s ever going to succeed. Her mother says she has to take every opportunity. She has. She accepted a scholarship to a mostly-white private school and even Saturday morning test prep opportunities. But some opportunities feel more demeaning than helpful. Like an invitation to join Women to Women, a mentorship program for “at-risk” girls. Except really, it’s for black girls. From “bad” neighborhoods.
But Jade doesn’t need support. And just because her mentor is black doesn’t mean she understands Jade. And maybe there are some things Jade could show these successful women about the real world and finding ways to make a real difference.
Friendships, race, privilege, identity—this compelling and thoughtful story explores the issues young women face.
277 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2017
1154 people are currently reading
34851 people want to read
About the author
Renée Watson
36 books1,652 followersRenée Watson is the author of the children’s picture book, A Place Where Hurricanes Happen (Random House, June 2010), which was featured on NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams. Her middle grade novel, What Momma Left Me debuted as the New Voice for 2010 in middle grade fiction by The Independent Children's Booksellers Association.
Renée’s one woman show, Roses are Red, Women are Blue, debuted at New York City's Lincoln Center at a showcase for emerging artists. Her poetry and articles have been published in Rethinking Schools, Theatre of the Mind and With Hearts Ablaze.
When Renée is not writing and performing, she is teaching. Renée has worked in public schools and community organizations as an artist in residence for several years, teaching poetry, fiction, and theater in Oregon, Louisiana, and New York City. She also facilitates professional development workshops for teachers and artists.
One of Renée’s passions is using the arts to help youth cope with trauma. She has facilitated poetry and theatre workshops with young girls coping with sexual and physical abuse, children who have witnessed violence, children coping with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and children who relocated to New York City after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. Renée graduated from The New School, where she studied Creative Writing and earned a certificate in Drama Therapy.
Renée currently lives in New York City.
Renée’s one woman show, Roses are Red, Women are Blue, debuted at New York City's Lincoln Center at a showcase for emerging artists. Her poetry and articles have been published in Rethinking Schools, Theatre of the Mind and With Hearts Ablaze.
When Renée is not writing and performing, she is teaching. Renée has worked in public schools and community organizations as an artist in residence for several years, teaching poetry, fiction, and theater in Oregon, Louisiana, and New York City. She also facilitates professional development workshops for teachers and artists.
One of Renée’s passions is using the arts to help youth cope with trauma. She has facilitated poetry and theatre workshops with young girls coping with sexual and physical abuse, children who have witnessed violence, children coping with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and children who relocated to New York City after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. Renée graduated from The New School, where she studied Creative Writing and earned a certificate in Drama Therapy.
Renée currently lives in New York City.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,328 reviews
April 13, 2017
And this makes me wonder if a black girl’s life is only about being stitched together and coming undone, being stitched together and coming undone.
I wonder if there’s ever a way for a girl like me to feel whole.
Piecing Me Together is such an important and moving book. It released during Black History Month, and was perhaps overshadowed by the buzz surrounding the amazing The Hate U Give that followed up a month later. Both books look at what it means to be a black teen in modern America, but their tones and focal points are different.
The Hate U Give is a hard-hitting book about one of the most horrific problems facing America today: the shooting of unharmed, black teenagers. It pulls no punches; it rips your heart out; it says what needs to be said.
Piecing Me Together, on the other hand, is a quieter read. It's about the everyday microaggressions that Jade faces as a scholarship student at a mostly-white school. It's about art - collages specifically (hence the cover) - and using this as a form of expression. It's about careful, nuanced friendships, identity and self-worth.
Sometimes I just want to be comfortable in this skin, this body. Want to cock my head back and laugh loud and free, all my teeth showing, and not be told I’m too rowdy, too ghetto.
Jade describes herself as a bigger girl, and the book proceeds to consider standards of beauty and how they are forced upon us.
But where this book stands out (and, really, where it shouldn't stand out) is that it is less about relations between black people and white people, and more about class issues within race. In Piecing Me Together, Jade joins "Women to Women", a program that connects young black teens with older, successful black women in order to *hopefully* improve their prospects.
Jade, however, struggles to connect with her mentor - Maxine - because Maxine grew up surrounded by wealth. The author shows these divides along wealth and class lines within race and how this affects relationships between wealthy and poor black women, whilst also showing how racial divides affect the relationship between Jade and her equally poor white friend, Sam.
It's things like this that really open my eyes to my privilege as a white reader. It is thankfully not strange anymore to read a book with a diverse set of characters, or a book that explores white/POC racial divides, but the real test of equality will not be when it's normal to see many POC among the white people on our screens and in our books, but when relationships between POC (of different class/religion/background/etc.) are explored as much as the relationships between white people.
This book takes some very necessary steps in that direction. It's also a powerful coming-of-age story, made easy to read in one sitting by the author's engaging style. Highly recommended for YA Contemporary fans.
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February 7, 2018
I just cried through the last 40 pages of this. Absolutely incredible.
July 18, 2020
Two things about this book:
1) Most social issue-focused YA contemporaries should pay attention to this one. Like, calling all of you: it's possible to write about important topics without having dry-ass narratives and characters I don't care about!!
2) I should have read it a long time ago.
Bottom line: That about covers it!
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please don't ask me how long i've had this book on my to-read list (but it's 3 years)
(thanks to the publisher for the copy. oops)
---
i am spending this month reading books by Black authors. please join me!
book 1: The Stars and the Blackness Between Them
book 2: Homegoing
book 3: Let's Talk about Love
book 4: Why I'm No Longer Talking to White People about Race
book 5: The Sellout
book 6: Queenie
book 7: Red at the Bone
book 8: The Weight of the Stars
book 9: An American Marriage
book 10: Dear Ijeawaele
book 11: Sing, Unburied, Sing
book 12: Real Men Knit
book 13: All Boys Aren't Blue
book 14: Piecing Me Together
1) Most social issue-focused YA contemporaries should pay attention to this one. Like, calling all of you: it's possible to write about important topics without having dry-ass narratives and characters I don't care about!!
2) I should have read it a long time ago.
Bottom line: That about covers it!
-------------
please don't ask me how long i've had this book on my to-read list (but it's 3 years)
(thanks to the publisher for the copy. oops)
---
i am spending this month reading books by Black authors. please join me!
book 1: The Stars and the Blackness Between Them
book 2: Homegoing
book 3: Let's Talk about Love
book 4: Why I'm No Longer Talking to White People about Race
book 5: The Sellout
book 6: Queenie
book 7: Red at the Bone
book 8: The Weight of the Stars
book 9: An American Marriage
book 10: Dear Ijeawaele
book 11: Sing, Unburied, Sing
book 12: Real Men Knit
book 13: All Boys Aren't Blue
book 14: Piecing Me Together
July 15, 2017
Why isn't everyone talking about this book!? I am honestly shocked that I hadn't heard about this before it was sent to me by the publisher (though this review is not sponsored or influenced by them in any way—as always, thoughts & opinions are my own).
This story is about Jade who is going into her junior year at a mostly white, wealthy high school in Portland where she is a scholarship student. She's learning Spanish, which is a big part of the story, and looking forward to this year because it's the one where she may finally be able to go on a study abroad program over spring break. At the start of the new school year, Jade gets placed in a mentorship program for African American students who are "at risk" and need someone to talk to, even though Jade, who has both her parents (divorced), uncle, and best friends in her life supporting her. She's unsure of getting involved in the program, but knowing her participation can ensure her a scholarship to any Oregon college once she graduates convinces her to stay with her mentor, Maxine.
The book follows Jade's year of school as she faces challenges with friends, her mentor, and discusses topics of racial identity (both within and outside of the black community), history & politics, and the thing that's most important to Jade—her art. She makes beautiful collages and is inspired by her life to put pieces together as she tries to come to terms with her own identity as a young woman, a black girl, and someone straddling so many divides.
It's a beautifully written story, one that taught me a lot, made me stop and consider the world from a totally different lens (which I think is what some of the best books do), and a story that will leave you, like Jade, inspired. 4.5 stars
This story is about Jade who is going into her junior year at a mostly white, wealthy high school in Portland where she is a scholarship student. She's learning Spanish, which is a big part of the story, and looking forward to this year because it's the one where she may finally be able to go on a study abroad program over spring break. At the start of the new school year, Jade gets placed in a mentorship program for African American students who are "at risk" and need someone to talk to, even though Jade, who has both her parents (divorced), uncle, and best friends in her life supporting her. She's unsure of getting involved in the program, but knowing her participation can ensure her a scholarship to any Oregon college once she graduates convinces her to stay with her mentor, Maxine.
The book follows Jade's year of school as she faces challenges with friends, her mentor, and discusses topics of racial identity (both within and outside of the black community), history & politics, and the thing that's most important to Jade—her art. She makes beautiful collages and is inspired by her life to put pieces together as she tries to come to terms with her own identity as a young woman, a black girl, and someone straddling so many divides.
It's a beautifully written story, one that taught me a lot, made me stop and consider the world from a totally different lens (which I think is what some of the best books do), and a story that will leave you, like Jade, inspired. 4.5 stars
January 16, 2018
This is the sort of quiet, underrated book that really deserves more attention. It is probably not dramatic or dark enough to make much of a wave. However, it is so relevant and really makes you think about race in this country and also about the enormous hurdles faced by families living in poverty. The main character, Jade, is smart and thoughtful, but she is also frustrated and I really felt for her. All she wants is fairness, and it made me sad to see her grapple with a world that is often so unfair, and to think about the many, many people in similar situations. Of course, no matter where we come from, no matter what color our skin, we all have problems and we all feel the world is unfair at times, but people living the way Jade and her family did in the book struggle on a day-to-day basis with things we often take for granted, like getting regular, healthy meals. I thought The Hate U Give was great, but I do think this book deserves as much attention. Both focus on racial identity, in and outside of the black community and offer insight we should all consider as we try to make the world a better place for everyone. It is a simple story, yet it really made me think. I also liked that the author lent much attention to different female relationships in the book. Jade and her neighborhood friend, Lee Lee, her white school friend, Sam, her mother, her mentor, her high school counselor. It's a short book, but I know I'll remember it for some time and would highly recommend it!
Find more reviews and bookish fun at http://www.princessandpen.com
Find more reviews and bookish fun at http://www.princessandpen.com
December 9, 2017
I read this book based on two people's recommendations that it was game-changing and eye-opening. On one hand, I do like that this book brings up issues that I haven't seen before in any other books about a young, black teenager, such as reconciling privilege and advocating for racism as a bystander and voicing injustices. There were threads and motifs that were woven throughout this book gorgeously, and I also thought that Jade's evolution from someone unsure of herself to someone who is vocal about she wants was really encouraging and powerful, and I can see how impactful it will be especially for young, marginalized teens who read this.
On the other hand, I just don't see it as anything revolutionary, so it was a little bit overhyped. It's a great story, there's great writing, and the transformation of the characters was really meaningful, but it was lacking a punch that would set it apart from other books, and I just didn't feel that impact as much as I wish I had. Nevertheless, seeing Jade's ambition and honestly was so refreshing and several people who saw me reading this asked about it because they liked the cover, so I still say it's a winner.
On the other hand, I just don't see it as anything revolutionary, so it was a little bit overhyped. It's a great story, there's great writing, and the transformation of the characters was really meaningful, but it was lacking a punch that would set it apart from other books, and I just didn't feel that impact as much as I wish I had. Nevertheless, seeing Jade's ambition and honestly was so refreshing and several people who saw me reading this asked about it because they liked the cover, so I still say it's a winner.
April 9, 2023
Piecing Me Together is the story of Jade, a black teenager who commutes every day to private school where she attends on scholarship. Feeling out of place at school and sometimes at home, Jade feels conflicted a lot of the time and like she doesn't fit in. When Jade is nominated to be in the mentorship program Woman to Woman, she begins to learn about herself and those around her.
I really enjoy Renee Watson's books, she is one of my favorite writers in youth fiction. Her writing flows across the page and I feel the reader falls in love with her characters right away. I loved Jade as a heroine and seeing the world through her eyes. She's at a tough point in her life I feel many teens can relate to, and I love how in this book there were many people along the way that helped Jade (even though sometimes she had to set them straight first). Finding your voice was a big theme in this book and Watson delivered a powerful story. Absolutely fantastic.
I really enjoy Renee Watson's books, she is one of my favorite writers in youth fiction. Her writing flows across the page and I feel the reader falls in love with her characters right away. I loved Jade as a heroine and seeing the world through her eyes. She's at a tough point in her life I feel many teens can relate to, and I love how in this book there were many people along the way that helped Jade (even though sometimes she had to set them straight first). Finding your voice was a big theme in this book and Watson delivered a powerful story. Absolutely fantastic.
March 14, 2020
Jade was such a strong person to read about, both in how well written she was, and just as a young inspiring character. She takes every opportunity that comes her way because she and her mother believe in order to succeed, she needs to get out of her neighborhood. But joining the mentorship program "Woman to Woman" which is supposed to help her get a scholarship, turns out to make her feel misunderstood and targeted, Jade must stand up for change. Much like with Watch Us Rise, I would have loved this so much as a teen and appreciated the light it shed on so many topics from privilege and microaggression, to reconciliation and socioeconomic tension. Thoughtful and smart, I hope this title is successfully getting into the hands of today's youth.
April 24, 2017
Another day of not feeling good so this will be short review.
A beautiful, thoughtful, moving novel that makes you think. It had a quieter vibe than The Hate U Give but just as important and powerful.
We need more books like this in the world and add them to every library in schools/towns that we can.
Would highly recommend :)
-----
Quotes: (in no particular order)
And this makes me wonder if a black girl’s life is only about being stitched together and coming undone, being stitched together and coming undone.
I wonder if there’s ever a way for a girl like me to feel whole.
“I know something happens between the time our mothers and fathers and teachers and mentors send us out into the world telling us, "The world is yours," and "You are beautiful," and "You can be anything," and the time we return to them.
Sometimes I just want to be comfortable in this skin, this body. Want to cock my head back and laugh loud and free, all my teeth showing, and not be told I’m too rowdy, too ghetto.
"Something happens when people tell me I have a pretty face, ignoring me from the neck down. When I watch the news and see unarmed black men and women shot dead over and over, it's kind of hard to believe this world is mine."
"Sometimes it feels like I leave home a whole person, sent off with kisses from Mom, who is hanging her every hope on my future. By the time I get home I feel like my soul has been shattered into a million pieces.
Mom's love repairs me.”
"The thing is, I don't think I'm shy. I just don't always know what to say or how to say it. I am like Mom in so many ways but not when it comes to things like this. She is full of words and bites her tongue for no one. I wish I could be that way."
"I'm regretting saying yes to this mentorship program. So far my mentor has stood me up because of some drama with her boyfriend and shown up in the middle of the night with gifts like that's supposed to make it all better. All of this has me wondering, what have I gotten myself into?Has me wondering, what is this woman really going to teach me?"
"I have never thought about my deserving the good things that have happened in my life. Maybe because I know so many people who work hard but still don't get the things they deserve, sometimes not even the things they need."
"I don't know what's worse. Being mistreated because of the color of your skin, your size, or having to prove that it really happened. "
"I ride through the transition blocks, and then I'm back on my side of town. Where the river is polluted. I am thinking about the fish and the river. The giving and learning. I am wondering how choices are made about who gets what and how much they get. Wondering who owns the river and the line, and the hook, and the worm. "
----
A beautiful, thoughtful, moving novel that makes you think. It had a quieter vibe than The Hate U Give but just as important and powerful.
We need more books like this in the world and add them to every library in schools/towns that we can.
Would highly recommend :)
-----
Quotes: (in no particular order)
And this makes me wonder if a black girl’s life is only about being stitched together and coming undone, being stitched together and coming undone.
I wonder if there’s ever a way for a girl like me to feel whole.
“I know something happens between the time our mothers and fathers and teachers and mentors send us out into the world telling us, "The world is yours," and "You are beautiful," and "You can be anything," and the time we return to them.
Sometimes I just want to be comfortable in this skin, this body. Want to cock my head back and laugh loud and free, all my teeth showing, and not be told I’m too rowdy, too ghetto.
"Something happens when people tell me I have a pretty face, ignoring me from the neck down. When I watch the news and see unarmed black men and women shot dead over and over, it's kind of hard to believe this world is mine."
"Sometimes it feels like I leave home a whole person, sent off with kisses from Mom, who is hanging her every hope on my future. By the time I get home I feel like my soul has been shattered into a million pieces.
Mom's love repairs me.”
"The thing is, I don't think I'm shy. I just don't always know what to say or how to say it. I am like Mom in so many ways but not when it comes to things like this. She is full of words and bites her tongue for no one. I wish I could be that way."
"I'm regretting saying yes to this mentorship program. So far my mentor has stood me up because of some drama with her boyfriend and shown up in the middle of the night with gifts like that's supposed to make it all better. All of this has me wondering, what have I gotten myself into?Has me wondering, what is this woman really going to teach me?"
"I have never thought about my deserving the good things that have happened in my life. Maybe because I know so many people who work hard but still don't get the things they deserve, sometimes not even the things they need."
"I don't know what's worse. Being mistreated because of the color of your skin, your size, or having to prove that it really happened. "
"I ride through the transition blocks, and then I'm back on my side of town. Where the river is polluted. I am thinking about the fish and the river. The giving and learning. I am wondering how choices are made about who gets what and how much they get. Wondering who owns the river and the line, and the hook, and the worm. "
----
October 4, 2020
I have so many feelings for this book. I love mentor plots in YA and that’s what initially made me want to read this book, but I had no idea how profound and powerful it was going to be.
Within a chapter or two I was already attached to the main character. She is so well written you can feel every one of her struggles as if they’re yours. I related so hard my words are all gone. Also, I empathized with this book on such a level that I don’t know how to really explain my thoughts.
This book shows a slice of Jade’s life in all its aspects, from friendship to school to being poor and black in America. Sometimes in books poverty is misrepresented and it’s one of the things that make me the angriest, but in this book? So freaking realistic. Plus, this is an ownvoices book and the discussion about racism, especially regarding microaggressions and white people not recognizing their privilege, is top-notch.
The interactions between Jade and the other characters sometimes make you really happy, and sometimes madden you. Though I loved the journey of Woman to Woman and the initially rocky relationship between Jade and Maxine. I liked to read about Jade and Sam’s friendship as well, even if I wanted to shake Sam so many times.
This is an amazing book if you want to read about what it means to be poor and black in America. It is especially timely right now, and I highly recommend it to anyone. Diversify your reading, please. It’s so important.
Within a chapter or two I was already attached to the main character. She is so well written you can feel every one of her struggles as if they’re yours. I related so hard my words are all gone. Also, I empathized with this book on such a level that I don’t know how to really explain my thoughts.
This book shows a slice of Jade’s life in all its aspects, from friendship to school to being poor and black in America. Sometimes in books poverty is misrepresented and it’s one of the things that make me the angriest, but in this book? So freaking realistic. Plus, this is an ownvoices book and the discussion about racism, especially regarding microaggressions and white people not recognizing their privilege, is top-notch.
The interactions between Jade and the other characters sometimes make you really happy, and sometimes madden you. Though I loved the journey of Woman to Woman and the initially rocky relationship between Jade and Maxine. I liked to read about Jade and Sam’s friendship as well, even if I wanted to shake Sam so many times.
This is an amazing book if you want to read about what it means to be poor and black in America. It is especially timely right now, and I highly recommend it to anyone. Diversify your reading, please. It’s so important.
September 14, 2020
“I don't know what's worse. Being mistreated because of the color of your skin, your size, or having to prove that it really happened.”
piecing me together is an important and relevant story that I didn't personally connect to, but I know others have and will continue to.
I loved the discussions of race, micro-aggressions and privilege that was tackled. I appreciated the lack of a romance. it was thematically well done. but I just wanted more.
everything from the plot to the characters to the writing felt one dimensional. there was so much potential, but unfortunately it fell flat for me. it wasn't necessarily that I couldn't relate to the characters or story- but that I never felt a connection. there was nothing for me latch on to. I am largely a character driven reader, but if there is pretty prose or an engaging plot I can typically still enjoy the story. Unfortunately, this book didn't deliver on any of those fronts for me. It felt slow and quiet- the best way I can put it. As soon as I finished the book I forget everything that happened.
I feel like this book just wasn't written for me, but I know that many others have really loved it- so I would never want to discourage young people, particularly those of colour, from picking it up. I think this read a bit young for me and maybe would have been better off marketed as middle grade. I also have recently found myself falling out of love with YA contemporaries, so that may well be a factor.
I have heard wonderful things about Renée Watson's books, so while this one was disappointing for me I am still open to trying some of her other books. Her upcoming title, love is a revolution sounds absolutely amazing (and the stunning cover is a bonus too!)
★★☆☆☆.5 stars
piecing me together is an important and relevant story that I didn't personally connect to, but I know others have and will continue to.
I loved the discussions of race, micro-aggressions and privilege that was tackled. I appreciated the lack of a romance. it was thematically well done. but I just wanted more.
everything from the plot to the characters to the writing felt one dimensional. there was so much potential, but unfortunately it fell flat for me. it wasn't necessarily that I couldn't relate to the characters or story- but that I never felt a connection. there was nothing for me latch on to. I am largely a character driven reader, but if there is pretty prose or an engaging plot I can typically still enjoy the story. Unfortunately, this book didn't deliver on any of those fronts for me. It felt slow and quiet- the best way I can put it. As soon as I finished the book I forget everything that happened.
I feel like this book just wasn't written for me, but I know that many others have really loved it- so I would never want to discourage young people, particularly those of colour, from picking it up. I think this read a bit young for me and maybe would have been better off marketed as middle grade. I also have recently found myself falling out of love with YA contemporaries, so that may well be a factor.
I have heard wonderful things about Renée Watson's books, so while this one was disappointing for me I am still open to trying some of her other books. Her upcoming title, love is a revolution sounds absolutely amazing (and the stunning cover is a bonus too!)
★★☆☆☆.5 stars
March 2, 2017
PIECING ME TOGETHER is a lovely quick read about a girl trying to find her own place in the world. I enjoyed Watson's THIS SIDE OF HOME last year & am even more impressed by TOGETHER. Watson makes strong female characters & I loved Jade, this book's MC.
Jade lives with her single mom & uncle E.J. in Portland, Ore. & goes to a predominantly white school. She is a bright student, getting A's & tutoring many peers. Jade is an artist & her goal in life is to travel the world, hence learning Spanish & attempting to get a scholarship. She decides to join Women to Women to attain this, as well as wanting to know how to balance a checkbook, seeing other artists, etc. Very smart girl.
Her mentor Maxine isn't what Jade had in mind: Maxine is focused on her ex-boyfriend Jon & always seems to be somewhere else while she's supposed to be "mentoring." This is one of the things Jade is stuck between by either talking about it or staying silent.
Besides this book having a strong voice on race struggles & opportunities, Watson makes Jade a body-positive character, as Jade describes herself as being thick but doesn't have a negative view about it. Bo-po is always welcome in YA. Jade also has other major obstacles, other reasons for her to learn how to stand & speak up for herself. Watson does a fantastic job of this, showcasing a young woman who decides not to give up on herself. Who decides not to quit because she would only be hurting herself. This is just one of the powerful messages to take away from here.
Another thing I loved about this book is that there is no romance!! This solely focuses on making a voice for yourself & following your dreams, even if there are roadblocks in your path. I think that's real important to show, that you don't NEED to be involved in a romantic relationship just to be (whatever). Instead, there are views of family & friendship & it was just really, really nice to see. I only wish it was longer, but it wrapped up nicely.
Highly recommended.
Jade lives with her single mom & uncle E.J. in Portland, Ore. & goes to a predominantly white school. She is a bright student, getting A's & tutoring many peers. Jade is an artist & her goal in life is to travel the world, hence learning Spanish & attempting to get a scholarship. She decides to join Women to Women to attain this, as well as wanting to know how to balance a checkbook, seeing other artists, etc. Very smart girl.
Her mentor Maxine isn't what Jade had in mind: Maxine is focused on her ex-boyfriend Jon & always seems to be somewhere else while she's supposed to be "mentoring." This is one of the things Jade is stuck between by either talking about it or staying silent.
Besides this book having a strong voice on race struggles & opportunities, Watson makes Jade a body-positive character, as Jade describes herself as being thick but doesn't have a negative view about it. Bo-po is always welcome in YA. Jade also has other major obstacles, other reasons for her to learn how to stand & speak up for herself. Watson does a fantastic job of this, showcasing a young woman who decides not to give up on herself. Who decides not to quit because she would only be hurting herself. This is just one of the powerful messages to take away from here.
Another thing I loved about this book is that there is no romance!! This solely focuses on making a voice for yourself & following your dreams, even if there are roadblocks in your path. I think that's real important to show, that you don't NEED to be involved in a romantic relationship just to be (whatever). Instead, there are views of family & friendship & it was just really, really nice to see. I only wish it was longer, but it wrapped up nicely.
Highly recommended.
October 16, 2018
#RWLChallenge: A book with black artists, dancers or musicians (own voices)
My only issue is that it is too short. LOL.
My only issue is that it is too short. LOL.
May 31, 2018
Review posted on Fafa's Book Corner!
Beware spoilers ahead!
Trigger warning: Racism and police violence.
Piecing Me Together was completed during #rimpysreadsathon. Piecing Me Together was a book talked about last year through booktube. Surprisingly I hadn't heard about it through GR or Twitter. After reading some reviews and seeing that it was in my library, I requested a copy. I'm very glad I did!
Through her mother's encouragement Jade has taken every opportunity her school has offered. The latest opportunity is Woman to Woman. A mentorship program. Jade is initially reluctant to accept. Jade feels that she won't gain anything from it, and it's not really for her. Until her guidance counselor mentions that if Jade completes the program then she'll receive a scholarship for any university in her area. Naturally Jade accepts. Throughout the book Jade learns more about speaking up, and gains some vital experiences.
I was happily surprised about how much I enjoyed Piecing Me Together! I didn't have high expectations. It is narrated in first person following Jade's point of view. Each chapter has title, wherein there is a word in English and translated to Spanish. Some chapters were shorter than others.
Jade was such a great character! I found her to be relatable. I too have some trouble speaking my mind from time to time. I loved reading about her growth and how she gained the courage to speak up! Jade actually read mature for her age, which I appreciated.
Throughout the story Jade struggles balancing her two worlds. At school she has to act and dress a specific way. At home she reverts to normal but her friends are still a bit apprehensive with her attending a mostly white school. Spanish and art is a huge part of Jade's character. Jade makes collages about her surroundings and the people in her life. Her biggest dream is go to Spain and experience the culture first hand. I enjoyed reading about her passions and how much work she put into achieving her goals!
I loved Jade's family! Her mother worked as a caretaker and was such a strong woman. She had a lot of good advice to give Jade and Maxine! And for once a parent in YA actually gave meaningful and relevant advice. Jade's relationship with her uncle E. J. was so sweet!
Jade's best friend Lee Lee was also fantastic! These two supported each other and were for each other there in times of need. Jade's relationship with her mentor Maxine was also well done! They had lots of rough patches but in the end they became close. Maxine was a good mentor to Jade and two helped each other grow. Maxine frustrated me in the beginning. But once she told her side of the story, realized her mistakes, and started to grow I grew to admire her.
Jade's relationship with Sam was complicated. Sam is a white poor girl, whereas Jade is a black poor girl. The author effortlessly shows the reader the difference between their situations and how it is linked to their skin tone. Sam does and says some pretty hurtful things to Jade. She realizes this comes back and apologizes. Jade also owns up to her own mistakes. Together they start their friendship anew with no more secrets from each other.
Woman to Woman was an amazing edition! I honestly wish there are books with this type of mentorship which I can read about. All the women had different experiences and supported each other! The trips that Sabrina assigned were fun to read about! I truly believe that all women should have access to this type of mentorship. Regardless of color and background. It's necessary and you can gain so much knowledge.
Several different issues are brought up! From police violence, social class/status, racism, to catcalling. The author handles this all effortlessly without sounding preachy. I loved how Jade teams up with her fellow classmates and friends to do something to raise money for Natasha Ramsey, a black girl who was brutally attacked at a party. All the conflicts were realistic and I rooting for Jade.
I'm just going to mention two things that really surprised me. Towards the end of Piecing Me Together Jade confronts her teacher about not being nominated for the school trip to Costa Rica. He explains that he has to give other students a chance, and that Jade already has so many opportunities. Jade calls him out on his prejudice and leaves.
The teacher comes back around to Jade to apologize. He also mentions that she has been nominated for the trip next year. I found this to be truly beautiful! Rarely do you ever experience let alone read about a teacher realizing his/her mistakes. And actually acting upon that realization!
There is no romance! That's right you heard me, a contemporary without romance. While it isn't impossible it's quite rare. Jade does make mention off maybe dating and getting married. Right now Jade remains focused on her life and school. I really appreciated this!
The only problem I had was that I wasn't invested. I was enjoying reading but I just wasn't invested. Then out of nowhere Piecing Me Together grabbed hold off me and never let go. I was invested in Jade's life and all the characters. While this is a minor complaint it still prevented me from giving a 5 star rating.
Overall I really enjoyed this! I recommend this book for everyone. You'll all find something to relate too.
Beware spoilers ahead!
Trigger warning: Racism and police violence.
Piecing Me Together was completed during #rimpysreadsathon. Piecing Me Together was a book talked about last year through booktube. Surprisingly I hadn't heard about it through GR or Twitter. After reading some reviews and seeing that it was in my library, I requested a copy. I'm very glad I did!
Through her mother's encouragement Jade has taken every opportunity her school has offered. The latest opportunity is Woman to Woman. A mentorship program. Jade is initially reluctant to accept. Jade feels that she won't gain anything from it, and it's not really for her. Until her guidance counselor mentions that if Jade completes the program then she'll receive a scholarship for any university in her area. Naturally Jade accepts. Throughout the book Jade learns more about speaking up, and gains some vital experiences.
I was happily surprised about how much I enjoyed Piecing Me Together! I didn't have high expectations. It is narrated in first person following Jade's point of view. Each chapter has title, wherein there is a word in English and translated to Spanish. Some chapters were shorter than others.
Jade was such a great character! I found her to be relatable. I too have some trouble speaking my mind from time to time. I loved reading about her growth and how she gained the courage to speak up! Jade actually read mature for her age, which I appreciated.
Throughout the story Jade struggles balancing her two worlds. At school she has to act and dress a specific way. At home she reverts to normal but her friends are still a bit apprehensive with her attending a mostly white school. Spanish and art is a huge part of Jade's character. Jade makes collages about her surroundings and the people in her life. Her biggest dream is go to Spain and experience the culture first hand. I enjoyed reading about her passions and how much work she put into achieving her goals!
I loved Jade's family! Her mother worked as a caretaker and was such a strong woman. She had a lot of good advice to give Jade and Maxine! And for once a parent in YA actually gave meaningful and relevant advice. Jade's relationship with her uncle E. J. was so sweet!
Jade's best friend Lee Lee was also fantastic! These two supported each other and were for each other there in times of need. Jade's relationship with her mentor Maxine was also well done! They had lots of rough patches but in the end they became close. Maxine was a good mentor to Jade and two helped each other grow. Maxine frustrated me in the beginning. But once she told her side of the story, realized her mistakes, and started to grow I grew to admire her.
Jade's relationship with Sam was complicated. Sam is a white poor girl, whereas Jade is a black poor girl. The author effortlessly shows the reader the difference between their situations and how it is linked to their skin tone. Sam does and says some pretty hurtful things to Jade. She realizes this comes back and apologizes. Jade also owns up to her own mistakes. Together they start their friendship anew with no more secrets from each other.
Woman to Woman was an amazing edition! I honestly wish there are books with this type of mentorship which I can read about. All the women had different experiences and supported each other! The trips that Sabrina assigned were fun to read about! I truly believe that all women should have access to this type of mentorship. Regardless of color and background. It's necessary and you can gain so much knowledge.
Several different issues are brought up! From police violence, social class/status, racism, to catcalling. The author handles this all effortlessly without sounding preachy. I loved how Jade teams up with her fellow classmates and friends to do something to raise money for Natasha Ramsey, a black girl who was brutally attacked at a party. All the conflicts were realistic and I rooting for Jade.
I'm just going to mention two things that really surprised me. Towards the end of Piecing Me Together Jade confronts her teacher about not being nominated for the school trip to Costa Rica. He explains that he has to give other students a chance, and that Jade already has so many opportunities. Jade calls him out on his prejudice and leaves.
The teacher comes back around to Jade to apologize. He also mentions that she has been nominated for the trip next year. I found this to be truly beautiful! Rarely do you ever experience let alone read about a teacher realizing his/her mistakes. And actually acting upon that realization!
There is no romance! That's right you heard me, a contemporary without romance. While it isn't impossible it's quite rare. Jade does make mention off maybe dating and getting married. Right now Jade remains focused on her life and school. I really appreciated this!
The only problem I had was that I wasn't invested. I was enjoying reading but I just wasn't invested. Then out of nowhere Piecing Me Together grabbed hold off me and never let go. I was invested in Jade's life and all the characters. While this is a minor complaint it still prevented me from giving a 5 star rating.
Overall I really enjoyed this! I recommend this book for everyone. You'll all find something to relate too.
January 13, 2023
4 stars
Piecing Me Together is an impactful and important YA book that follows Jade, a teenager in Portland Oregon. Jade is on scholarship to a school on the other side of Portland and is trying to balance her life at school, her art, and a mentorship program she’s in. I loved being in Jade’s head and hearing her thoughts and watching her find her voice. This was well written and such a good book!
Piecing Me Together is an impactful and important YA book that follows Jade, a teenager in Portland Oregon. Jade is on scholarship to a school on the other side of Portland and is trying to balance her life at school, her art, and a mentorship program she’s in. I loved being in Jade’s head and hearing her thoughts and watching her find her voice. This was well written and such a good book!
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Renee Watson
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary YA
Length: 5h 38m
March 25, 2017
And this makes me wonder if a black girl's life is only about being stitched together and coming undone, being stitched together and coming undone. I wonder if there's ever a way for a girl like me to feel whole.
What can I say? Renée Watson returns with another story of young black girlhood. After reading This Side of Home, I wanted more from this author. She delivered.
Jade is a YA female protagonist that's needed. She offers, on page, the daily mirror almost every black girl reflects upon. Issues of class, poverty, racism, police brutality, and body shaming dance without simplicity, without whitewashing, and without coddling. Nothing's clean. Nothing's wrapped in bows and glitter. Honesty exude. Heart and soul reigns. What you see is a healthy portion of reality that won't leave you hungry.
Pros:
1. Jade. Made of coal skin and hula-hoop hips, she knows male teens see her as a 5. Yet, her soul is immeasurable. She's aware of who she is and where she's headed. She deserves a heard voice and she's going to receive an audience. But, you cannot help wanting to shield her from inevitable moments, like the Natasha Ramsey incident and how her heart stops when she witnesses a cop pull over a black woman You root for her present and her future.
2. Real issues discussed. Classism, racism, body shaming, police brutality (the story shouts out victims of past police and societal brutality), and poverty. Nothing's clean. Nothing's coddled. Nothing's wrapped in glittery bows. I don't know what's worse. Being mistreat because of the color of your skin, your size, or having to prove that it really happened.
3. Complex characters. Maxine. Jade's mom and dad. Sam. Mr. Flores, even the school's counselor and lunch lady are not spared. Societal complexities are discussed. No one's clean. No one's coddled. No one's whitewashed.
4. Cultural winks. Lee Lee would get that. She'd look at me and we'd have a whole conversation with our eyes. Or, what measure is black? Does she dispel stereotypes at school? Or, do she have to prove she's black enough when around the community?
Cons:
1. Story's short. I wanted more!
2. Some of the conclusion is a wee tidy for me. But, I'll deal.
Highly recommended. 5 stars. Read, share, learn, and grow.
What can I say? Renée Watson returns with another story of young black girlhood. After reading This Side of Home, I wanted more from this author. She delivered.
Jade is a YA female protagonist that's needed. She offers, on page, the daily mirror almost every black girl reflects upon. Issues of class, poverty, racism, police brutality, and body shaming dance without simplicity, without whitewashing, and without coddling. Nothing's clean. Nothing's wrapped in bows and glitter. Honesty exude. Heart and soul reigns. What you see is a healthy portion of reality that won't leave you hungry.
Pros:
1. Jade. Made of coal skin and hula-hoop hips, she knows male teens see her as a 5. Yet, her soul is immeasurable. She's aware of who she is and where she's headed. She deserves a heard voice and she's going to receive an audience. But, you cannot help wanting to shield her from inevitable moments, like the Natasha Ramsey incident and how her heart stops when she witnesses a cop pull over a black woman You root for her present and her future.
2. Real issues discussed. Classism, racism, body shaming, police brutality (the story shouts out victims of past police and societal brutality), and poverty. Nothing's clean. Nothing's coddled. Nothing's wrapped in glittery bows. I don't know what's worse. Being mistreat because of the color of your skin, your size, or having to prove that it really happened.
3. Complex characters. Maxine. Jade's mom and dad. Sam. Mr. Flores, even the school's counselor and lunch lady are not spared. Societal complexities are discussed. No one's clean. No one's coddled. No one's whitewashed.
4. Cultural winks. Lee Lee would get that. She'd look at me and we'd have a whole conversation with our eyes. Or, what measure is black? Does she dispel stereotypes at school? Or, do she have to prove she's black enough when around the community?
Cons:
1. Story's short. I wanted more!
2. Some of the conclusion is a wee tidy for me. But, I'll deal.
Highly recommended. 5 stars. Read, share, learn, and grow.
July 25, 2019
Read for The Reading Rush readathon.
Challenge: read a book in the same spot the entire time.
Challenge: read a book in the same spot the entire time.
Read
August 15, 2017I loved this book about Jade, a teen girl growing up in a poor neighborhood in Oregon who attends a mostly-white private school. She is invited to an “at-risk” mentorship program called Women to Women, and Jade quickly figures out that just because her mentor is black doesn’t mean they can relate to each other. Jade’s voice is compelling and real, and the book is interspersed with gorgeous poetry (see Chapter 35, Things That are Black and Beautiful). The cover is also stunning – artwork done by Bryan Collier – which reflects Jade’s artistry and the overall theme of being stitched together and coming undone. I loved this book, and look forward to recommending it over and over again.
— Karina Glaser
from The Best Books We Read In April 2017: http://bookriot.com/2017/05/01/riot-r...
____________________
A friend began raving about this immediately when she finished it, so when the Call Number Box included it as their February title and it hit my door the next day, I knew it was going to be a match made in reader heaven.
This is powerful story about class, about how you find yourself, how you lose yourself, and what it means to be a black girl in America. Jade attends a fancy high school on scholarship, but she takes the bus from her poor neighborhood in Portland. When she’s recruited for a mentorship program and is taken around the city to visit places she’s never been able to before, Jade isn’t thrilled — why does she, the poor girl, only get to see her city and not travel to a foreign country like many of her classmates get the opportunity to do?
Watson writes with tremendous heart, but she doesn’t shy away from highlighting the tough moments of growing up, either. There is a really thoughtful exploration of friendship, particularly of the intersectional variety, as well as the microaggressions that can happen on a daily basis within them. Jade is a girl who describes herself as “big” in ways that authentically capture the feeling of having a body that doesn’t fit a certain mold — and through the story, we see Jade is okay with this. It is simply who she is.
This is a smart, savvy look at race; more than just looking at race relations, this delves into race challenges within the black community. It’s written in tight, taut prose and packs a punch in a few amount of pages. One of the best YA titles of 2017 so far.
— Kelly Jensen
from The Best Books We Read In February 2017: http://bookriot.com/2017/02/28/riot-r...
— Karina Glaser
from The Best Books We Read In April 2017: http://bookriot.com/2017/05/01/riot-r...
____________________
A friend began raving about this immediately when she finished it, so when the Call Number Box included it as their February title and it hit my door the next day, I knew it was going to be a match made in reader heaven.
This is powerful story about class, about how you find yourself, how you lose yourself, and what it means to be a black girl in America. Jade attends a fancy high school on scholarship, but she takes the bus from her poor neighborhood in Portland. When she’s recruited for a mentorship program and is taken around the city to visit places she’s never been able to before, Jade isn’t thrilled — why does she, the poor girl, only get to see her city and not travel to a foreign country like many of her classmates get the opportunity to do?
Watson writes with tremendous heart, but she doesn’t shy away from highlighting the tough moments of growing up, either. There is a really thoughtful exploration of friendship, particularly of the intersectional variety, as well as the microaggressions that can happen on a daily basis within them. Jade is a girl who describes herself as “big” in ways that authentically capture the feeling of having a body that doesn’t fit a certain mold — and through the story, we see Jade is okay with this. It is simply who she is.
This is a smart, savvy look at race; more than just looking at race relations, this delves into race challenges within the black community. It’s written in tight, taut prose and packs a punch in a few amount of pages. One of the best YA titles of 2017 so far.
— Kelly Jensen
from The Best Books We Read In February 2017: http://bookriot.com/2017/02/28/riot-r...
Read
February 15, 2017A powerful story about class, about how you find yourself, how you lose yourself, and what it means to be a black girl in America. Watson's story is full of heart, as much as it's full of moments that are heart-wrenching. Loved how this book explored friendship and intersectional relationships, as well as the microaggressions that can occur within them. This is a smart, savvy look at race; more than just looking at race relations, this delves into race challenges within the black community.
Also? This is a book about Jade's love for art, for creating, and for sharing her story in bits and pieces. Watson expertly weaves this all together with both the collage metaphor and, perhaps even more cleverly, through the Lewis and Clark (plus York) story.
Bonus: Jade describes herself as a big girl, and her ways of navigating the "fat/thin" lines are compelling and so realistic they hurt.
I'm going to be thinking about this one for a long time. Hand to those who loved Kekla Magoon's HOW IT WENT DOWN, Watson's first YA book THIS SIDE OF HOME, and Lilliam Rivera's THE EDUCATION OF MARGOT SANCHEZ.
Also? This is a book about Jade's love for art, for creating, and for sharing her story in bits and pieces. Watson expertly weaves this all together with both the collage metaphor and, perhaps even more cleverly, through the Lewis and Clark (plus York) story.
Bonus: Jade describes herself as a big girl, and her ways of navigating the "fat/thin" lines are compelling and so realistic they hurt.
I'm going to be thinking about this one for a long time. Hand to those who loved Kekla Magoon's HOW IT WENT DOWN, Watson's first YA book THIS SIDE OF HOME, and Lilliam Rivera's THE EDUCATION OF MARGOT SANCHEZ.
May 23, 2019
Though it had a great message, a message is not a plot nor characters. The characters were all pretty one dimensional and predictable, and the plot was just boring and went nowhere. I don’t really understand why everyone’s raving about the writing because it felt very utilitarian. Here’s some dialogue, here’s some plot, but really this is just a device for the main character to make a very canned and unemotional political comment. The lack of emotions was one of the weirdest parts. When the main character would be upset about something and make a political statement it was almost robotic. Even if the author is trying to portray her as used to for example male harassment, her utter lack of emotion to being called obscene things and harassed at Dairy Queen was very unrealistic, and that’s just one example of something that happens many times in the book. Every relationship and character in the book was just to further a political message. And even if they were very good messages, they were not anything new or profound. It was almost like reading a theory book masquerading as a novel but theory with very little depth.
Read
July 2, 2020An interesting main character grappling with the reality and idea of "opportunity."
July 9, 2020
A beautiful story that thoughtfully discusses the intersection of race, gender, friendship, and privilege. It was just lovely!
November 13, 2018
And this makes me wonder if a black girl’s life is only about being stitched together and coming undone, being stitched together and coming undone.
I am not usually one for YA books but this one blew me over! I absolutely loved Renee Watson's Piecing Me Together . The book is told from the point of view of the main character Jade. She is a young girl from a poor neighborhood who won a scholarship to a prestigious mainly white school. Jade shows us how she navigates both worlds she is forced to live in and how everything expects something different from her. Renee Watson's writing was so real and well done.
If you enjoyed The Hate U Give then you will thoroughly enjoy this novel! A must read for me!
I am not usually one for YA books but this one blew me over! I absolutely loved Renee Watson's Piecing Me Together . The book is told from the point of view of the main character Jade. She is a young girl from a poor neighborhood who won a scholarship to a prestigious mainly white school. Jade shows us how she navigates both worlds she is forced to live in and how everything expects something different from her. Renee Watson's writing was so real and well done.
If you enjoyed The Hate U Give then you will thoroughly enjoy this novel! A must read for me!
November 24, 2020
A Fantastic Story.
“Piecing Me Together,” the 2018 novel by Renee Watson is a wonderful book that I loved.
In the story, the main character Jade goes to a private school or a scholarship. Like many children who to go to similar schools on scholarships, she felt alienated. Eventually she meets a close friend, Sam and they begin a very warm friendship.
The overall theme of this reading is a coming of age story. In the story, this young woman of color slowly comes to a realization of how power, opportunity, education and the impact of peers have on her development. As she puts everything in perspective, she feels confident enough to speak out on different matters.
As I’ve said before, I love books where women with a strong personality and are not afraid to take leadership on controversial issues. This is one!
Finally, is the issue of her art. Her willingness to share her work and her art grows as she becomes more confident. Eventually, Jade is able to stand up against those who are willing to make a joke about it.
From a personal perspective, I went to school with people who had more economic and social advantages than me. Therefore, I was able to relate to some of the struggles that Our main character had throughout story. I struggled with my family, different friendships and feeling inadequate before the expensive clothing the others wore and I could not afford.
The book has won many awards and it’s very easy to understand why.
I highly recommend this book
“Piecing Me Together,” the 2018 novel by Renee Watson is a wonderful book that I loved.
In the story, the main character Jade goes to a private school or a scholarship. Like many children who to go to similar schools on scholarships, she felt alienated. Eventually she meets a close friend, Sam and they begin a very warm friendship.
The overall theme of this reading is a coming of age story. In the story, this young woman of color slowly comes to a realization of how power, opportunity, education and the impact of peers have on her development. As she puts everything in perspective, she feels confident enough to speak out on different matters.
As I’ve said before, I love books where women with a strong personality and are not afraid to take leadership on controversial issues. This is one!
Finally, is the issue of her art. Her willingness to share her work and her art grows as she becomes more confident. Eventually, Jade is able to stand up against those who are willing to make a joke about it.
From a personal perspective, I went to school with people who had more economic and social advantages than me. Therefore, I was able to relate to some of the struggles that Our main character had throughout story. I struggled with my family, different friendships and feeling inadequate before the expensive clothing the others wore and I could not afford.
The book has won many awards and it’s very easy to understand why.
I highly recommend this book
January 27, 2018
"Sometimes it feels like I leave home a whole person, sent off with kisses from Mom, who is hanging her every hope on my future. By the time I get home I feel like my soul has been shattered into a million little pieces...And this makes me wonder if a black girl's life is only about being stitched together and coming undone, being stitched together and coming undone." (p. 85-86)
I loved this story about a girl attending a private school on scholarship and her relationships—with the school, with her mom, with her mentor, with her dear friend from her neighborhood and a new one from elsewhere, with news of police brutality against a young black girl, and with the world around her. Ultimately, it's a story about finding one's voice through art. And the poem at the end is incredibly powerful.
"The only noise in the kitchen is her pen on the page crossing out and adding in, writing and rewriting stanzas, mixed with the slicing of scissors, the tearing of paper. On and on we go until the sun meets moon." (p.247)
I loved this story about a girl attending a private school on scholarship and her relationships—with the school, with her mom, with her mentor, with her dear friend from her neighborhood and a new one from elsewhere, with news of police brutality against a young black girl, and with the world around her. Ultimately, it's a story about finding one's voice through art. And the poem at the end is incredibly powerful.
"The only noise in the kitchen is her pen on the page crossing out and adding in, writing and rewriting stanzas, mixed with the slicing of scissors, the tearing of paper. On and on we go until the sun meets moon." (p.247)
July 22, 2017
OH MY GOD THIS WAS MAGNIFICENT.
I highly, highly, highly recommend this book about a poor Black girl artist growing up in Portland. Wow.
Please, please read this. There isn't enough hype for this masterpiece, despite the fact that the majority of my friends rated this 5 stars. Why aren't people talking about this? (Or where have I been to miss it? Seriously, I wish I picked this up months ago.)
Just read it.
I highly, highly, highly recommend this book about a poor Black girl artist growing up in Portland. Wow.
Please, please read this. There isn't enough hype for this masterpiece, despite the fact that the majority of my friends rated this 5 stars. Why aren't people talking about this? (Or where have I been to miss it? Seriously, I wish I picked this up months ago.)
Just read it.
October 22, 2018
Piecing Me Together was beautifully, almost lyrically, written. It was powerful, honest and contained so many important messages that need to be said. If you’re looking for a short read that packs a punch, this is one I’d definitely recommend.
November 25, 2023
Piecing Me Together is a stunning masterpiece.
Thoughtful, sharp, and so incisive in its intersectional examination of social issues - if you haven't read this, then I'm assigning this as required reading for you.
- Follows Jade, a Black fat and poor teen artist who lives in a poor neighbourhood but attend a rich school under a scholarship has to navigate growing up, being Black, and being poor in a society that isn't interested in her personhood but is only interested in 'helping her' - even though she doesn't want to be helped. She just wants to be given the same opportunities as others.
- This book is just so bloody good. I'm in awe with how Watson interwove so many complex and interesting arcs in Jade's life - from her family life and relationship with her mother, her complex relationship with her mentor, police violence and its effect on Black women as witnesses of the violence, and also how she navigates school life and friendship.
- Most of the characters are Black women and I really enjoyed how complex and interesting all the characters were.
- Powerfully explores classism, fatness, being a Black woman, being shoved into boxes that you didn't want to be placed in, navigating tenuous friendships with ignorant White friends, and the intersections of these themes and Jade's identity and experience.
- There was no romance - which was so refreshing and wonderful, as Jade's character arc and growth is so powerful on its own.
A phenomenal book and one that will definitely be found in my top 10 reads of 2020 list.
Trigger/content warning: police violence (described), street harassment, anti-fat comments and experience, classist microaggressions, racism - all challenged.
Thoughtful, sharp, and so incisive in its intersectional examination of social issues - if you haven't read this, then I'm assigning this as required reading for you.
- Follows Jade, a Black fat and poor teen artist who lives in a poor neighbourhood but attend a rich school under a scholarship has to navigate growing up, being Black, and being poor in a society that isn't interested in her personhood but is only interested in 'helping her' - even though she doesn't want to be helped. She just wants to be given the same opportunities as others.
- This book is just so bloody good. I'm in awe with how Watson interwove so many complex and interesting arcs in Jade's life - from her family life and relationship with her mother, her complex relationship with her mentor, police violence and its effect on Black women as witnesses of the violence, and also how she navigates school life and friendship.
- Most of the characters are Black women and I really enjoyed how complex and interesting all the characters were.
- Powerfully explores classism, fatness, being a Black woman, being shoved into boxes that you didn't want to be placed in, navigating tenuous friendships with ignorant White friends, and the intersections of these themes and Jade's identity and experience.
- There was no romance - which was so refreshing and wonderful, as Jade's character arc and growth is so powerful on its own.
A phenomenal book and one that will definitely be found in my top 10 reads of 2020 list.
Trigger/content warning: police violence (described), street harassment, anti-fat comments and experience, classist microaggressions, racism - all challenged.
May 15, 2018
**I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.**
When I am in giveaway mode I try to move down the list as quickly as possible. I really only glance at the cover to gauge how interested I am in it and skim over the title to make sure it isn’t part of a series (always have to start with book one). I don’t dig into the synopsis because I like to be surprised when they show up in the mail. This book was a huge surprise for me because lately I have been trying to avoid YA books. It’s not that I think they are bad but that I’m not really interested in reading them anymore. Most of them lack the depth I crave and the subject matter doesn’t speak to me like books geared to an older audience. I’m pretty sure I have entered the old, cranky fart stage of my reading.
This book is a gem. I loved everything about it, especially the main character. She is so full of life, thoughts and opinions and I just couldn’t get enough of her. The writing style was superb and it told a story that laid bare so many important topics that any person from any age can appreciate it.
Newbery Honor Books are ALWAYS worth it!
When I am in giveaway mode I try to move down the list as quickly as possible. I really only glance at the cover to gauge how interested I am in it and skim over the title to make sure it isn’t part of a series (always have to start with book one). I don’t dig into the synopsis because I like to be surprised when they show up in the mail. This book was a huge surprise for me because lately I have been trying to avoid YA books. It’s not that I think they are bad but that I’m not really interested in reading them anymore. Most of them lack the depth I crave and the subject matter doesn’t speak to me like books geared to an older audience. I’m pretty sure I have entered the old, cranky fart stage of my reading.
This book is a gem. I loved everything about it, especially the main character. She is so full of life, thoughts and opinions and I just couldn’t get enough of her. The writing style was superb and it told a story that laid bare so many important topics that any person from any age can appreciate it.
Newbery Honor Books are ALWAYS worth it!
February 16, 2019
Piecing Me Together follows Jade, a young girl living in a poor neighborhood in North Portland. She attends St. Francis, a private school on the other side of town. Being one of the only black kids attending St. Francis sometimes Jade feels like an outsider. When the school counselor recommends that she join a woman to woman mentor program she learns that she can make a difference.
Piecing Me Together is a beautiful, beautiful book written by Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott winning author, Renee Watson.
Piecing Me Together takes place in Portland, Oregon, where I used to live so I really enjoyed this book. I haven't read a lot of books set in Portland. But, it's always cool to read a book that mentions places that you've been or that you have memories of.
Jade joins a woman to woman mentorship program. Her mentor attended St. Francis and is black, like Jade. Maxine, Jade's mentor is a great character. She's very caring and even though she has things going on in her personal life. Jade helps her mentor and her mentor helps her as well.
During Piecing Me Together Jade becomes more comfortable with herself and she organizes an event in honor of Natasha Ramsey, a girl who was a victim of Police Brutality. She organizes an event with her friends and with help from her mentor her idea becomes a reality. And Jade learns that she can make a difference.
Age rating:
13-up
Overall I loved Piecing Me Together. It was a beautiful, inspiring read. I will definitely read more of Renee Watson's work in the future. And also the beautiful cover!!
Five stars.
Piecing Me Together is a beautiful, beautiful book written by Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott winning author, Renee Watson.
Piecing Me Together takes place in Portland, Oregon, where I used to live so I really enjoyed this book. I haven't read a lot of books set in Portland. But, it's always cool to read a book that mentions places that you've been or that you have memories of.
Jade joins a woman to woman mentorship program. Her mentor attended St. Francis and is black, like Jade. Maxine, Jade's mentor is a great character. She's very caring and even though she has things going on in her personal life. Jade helps her mentor and her mentor helps her as well.
During Piecing Me Together Jade becomes more comfortable with herself and she organizes an event in honor of Natasha Ramsey, a girl who was a victim of Police Brutality. She organizes an event with her friends and with help from her mentor her idea becomes a reality. And Jade learns that she can make a difference.
Age rating:
13-up
Overall I loved Piecing Me Together. It was a beautiful, inspiring read. I will definitely read more of Renee Watson's work in the future. And also the beautiful cover!!
Five stars.
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