Remember Us

by Jacqueline Woodson
Nancy Paulsen Books, an imprint of Penguin House LLC, 2023

In an episode of Barnes & Noble “Poured Over”, hosted by Executive Producer Miwa Messer, Jacqueline Woodson talks about her book, Remember Us. It is a story about the Bushwick community in the 1970s.  She wanted to write about her community, its history and the fires. She stated that this story was more about Black and brown flight than white flight because Black and brown people were leaving to save their lives and survive.

“After the year of fire
vines rise up
through the rest of our lives
of smoke
of flame
of memory.
As if to say
We’re still here.
As if to say
Remember us.

Woodson writes these words before the beginning of the story. Sage, the main character, is remembering that year.,the year of fires, of Black and brown flight, of loss, and grief. It was the year Sage was pondering her identity and place as a girl. She would rather play basketball with the guys than hang out with the circle of girls she has known forever. It was also the year that Freddy moved into the community. Freddy, who was also trying to fit in, was short and light-skinned with eyes that changed colors. In spite of their differences, Freddy and Sage became very good friends. They both played basketball and talked about many things. They also shared a common experience whenever they saw the fires rage in the neighborhood. Through each experience, Freddy’s and Sage’s friendship grew stronger and better. No matter what, they were there. 

What works: Sage’s voice adds life to this community. She tells a rich and powerful story about family, friends, grief, and loss. She is a smart seventh grade student, who is trying to figure out who she is while continuing to do what she loves. The reader follows Sage’s growth and development as a girl, daughter, basketball player and friend. Woodson’s concise and poetic language tells a complete story with the reader filling in the blanks.

What doesn’t work: Readers who may not like poetry, or filling in the blanks may not like reading this book. However, Woodson gives the reader so much information in just a few pages the reader can draw some conclusions. Although Sage is telling this story about community, family and friendship, Sage also talks about grief and loss. This may be a trigger for those who have lost a family member.

Pass it OR Grab it?

Grab it! This book is definitely targeted to the middle grades. However, some young adults may like the novel in verse style and like reading about Sage. Some teachers may enjoy reading aloud parts of the story which can spark lively discussions about Sage, her family, and Freddy. Students could further explore the themes of community, family, and friendships through interactive lessons and activities.