What readers think of Remember Us, plus links to write your own review.

"Remember Us" by Jacqueline Woodson is a poignant and beautifully crafted exploration of the challenges and transformations that shape adolescence, set against the backdrop of a neighborhood in turmoil. The novel follows Sage, a young girl navigating the complexities of friendship, change, and loss in her Bushwick community during a summer marked by a series of destructive fires.

Woodson skillfully weaves a narrative that captures the essence of Sage's struggle to find her place in a shifting world. The metaphor of the neighborhood being referred to as "The Matchbox" serves as a powerful symbol, highlighting the fragility of the community and the vulnerability of the people within it. The fires not only threaten physical structures but also ignite a sense of uncertainty and displacement among the residents.

At the heart of the story is Sage's journey to reconcile her evolving friendships, particularly with the circle of girls she has known since childhood. As the dynamics within the group change, Sage grapples with feelings of alienation and the challenge of understanding her identity within the shifting social landscape. Woodson skillfully delves into the emotional nuances of adolescence, capturing the insecurities, self-discovery, and the yearning for connection that characterize this pivotal stage of life.

The introduction of Freddy, a new kid who connects with Sage on a deep level, adds a layer of warmth and hope to the narrative. Their friendship becomes a source of strength as they navigate the challenges presented by the fires and the shifting dynamics of their neighborhood. The exploration of loss and the bittersweet nature of memories further enriches the story, emphasizing the importance of cherishing the present while acknowledging the inevitability of change.

"Remember Us" is not just a tale of destruction and upheaval; it is a celebration of resilience, friendship, and the enduring power of memories. Woodson's prose is lyrical and evocative, drawing readers into the heart of Sage's experiences and emotions. The novel speaks to the universal themes of letting go, holding on, and finding one's way forward amid life's uncertainties.

In conclusion, Jacqueline Woodson's "Remember Us" is a compelling and emotionally resonant coming-of-age story that captures the essence of adolescence with grace and authenticity. Through Sage's journey, readers are reminded of the profound impact of friendship, the resilience of the human spirit, and the significance of embracing change while cherishing the memories that shape us.

“Remember Us” by Jacqueline Woodson is the kind of Young Adult Fiction that reminds you while adults seek out the genre. If your kid has any identity issues, read it. Seeing a rising seventh grader navigate her stuff while the only neighborhood she has ever known goes up in flames will inspire you and your adolescent children to face anything.

Goodreads classifies this as Historical Fiction, Middle Grade, or Young Adult, so the issues remain relevant regardless of the setting. Sage, our hero, sees herself drifting away from her friends. Even in a world where a child with a deceased father seems to populate every Pixar movie, this material seems fresh and relevant. I see it in my students daily.

I once thought I avoided Middle-Grade Literature because it was juvenile, but now it can remind you of the painful, forgotten moments from childhood. Like the underrated movie “Click” (one of the only Adam Sandler movies I liked), we learn that looking back at your youth can bring up emotions you do not want.

Sage lives in an area called “The Matchbox” due to many house fires. Since Sage’s deceased father was a firefighter, she has a complicated relationship with fires. Like any middle school student, she does not always process her confusion well. Our wisdom makes us want to shake her and get to the bottom of her latent issues.

Sage frequently mentions the “once was,” where she classifies things that no longer exist. It is as mature a way to deal with loss as possible. I encountered very little loss at that early age. Our hero reminds us how little control a middle schooler has over their circumstances and how that leads to frustration and anger. It is perfect for 11-14 year-olds, my eldest included.