Dear Martin

Bibliography:

Stone, N. (2017). Dear martin. Ember. 

Plot Summary:

Justyce is an honor student and is set to go to an ivy league school, but it all changes when he is put in handcuffs by the police. Trying to leave his rough neighborhood behind him, but has new classmates that ridicule him. Seeking answers, Justyce turns to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s teachings to guide him and starts a journal. 

Critical Analysis:

After reading Dear Martin, I have to say that this book is such an important book for teens to read when it comes to issues like racism, bullying and police brutality. It is a hard book to get through because of the emotions and pain that Justyce experiences. I had to put the book down a few times but I am so glad that I finished the book. Booklist said in their review that the book was “vivid and powerful,” and I couldn’t agree more. It is a book that is constantly make you think and stay with you after you read it. The greatest addition to the story is Justyce writing letters to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in his journal because you get an understanding of the difficulty that he is going through and what he is thinking. You are able to see his frustration, helplessness and strength in his journal writing. This book is great for young teens to read to be able to relate to but also have understanding from all sides. 

Review Excerpts:

“Teens, librarians and teachers alike will find this book a godsend…Vivid and powerful.” – Booklist

“A visceral portrait of a young man reckoning with the ugly, persistent violence of social injustice.” – Publishers Weekly

“[Dear Martin] stands apart in a literature that too often finds it hard to look hard truths in the face. Take interest and ask questions.” – Kirkus Reviews

Connections:

Read other works by Nic Stone: Odd One Out and Jackpot: All Bets Are Off