The opening lines of this story resonate through the entire book. Jade lives in Portland, Oregon. Her life is focused on making something of herself and that includes learning Spanish, working on collage art, and going across town to a prestigious private school. Jade's mother doesn't always have money for even the basics, but Jade has a strong family and friends in her own neighborhood. When Jade is offered the opportunity to have a mentor in the "Woman to Woman" program she is wary--she doesn't want to always feel like people are doing things for her, but she accepts and Maxine becomes her mentor. But Jade has a lot to offer, and as she learns how to speak up and use her voice, she opens herself up to new opportunities. Renee Watson is a brilliant writer, and this book takes you deeply into Jade's life and let's you see all it's complications and possibilities.
