Rainbow Jordan

by Alice Childress
PRMS paperback 127 pages
genre: YA realistic fiction, inner city

I really enjoyed this, but am not sure it would appeal to students. I thought about asking Jhanae or Tequilla to read it and give me their opinions, but I'm not sure they'd be interested. Rainbow (aka "Rainey") has an irresponsible mother who's gone a lot. Rainbow goes to spend time with Josie (foster care) and the story is told primarily from the perspective of these two - a 14-year-old and a 57-year-old. Rainbow's mother Kathie also has a "voice," but it isn't prominent.

Sad story, but Rainbow is a mature young lady who learns a bit and grows up through her life's challenges. I liked it.