Ways to Grow Love

Intermittently funny, frustrating, and touching. . . . Allows black readers to see themselves and all readers to find a character they can love. Move over Ramona Quimby, Portland has another neighbor you have to meet! * Kirkus Reviews, starred review, on WAYS TO MAKE SUNSHINE *
Adroitly captures the uncertainty of growing up amid change through the eyes of an irrepressible black girl. * Publishers Weekly, starred review, on WAYS TO MAKE SUNSHINE *
Ryan Hart approaches challenges in her life with bravery, common sense, and humor. . . . a refreshing character. * Horn Book Magazine on WAYS TO MAKE SUNSHINE *
Middle graders who like realistic fiction will enjoy getting to know this earnest girl and her supportive family. * School Library Connection on WAYS TO MAKE SUNSHINE *
Plenty of charm . . . readers will look forward to Ryan’s future adventures. * BCCB on WAYS TO MAKE SUNSHINE *
The theme of loving family and friends even through difficult times will resonate with readers. Cheerful black-and-white illustrations enhance the story and convey Ryan’s effervescent personality. * School Library Journal online on WAYS TO MAKE SUNSHINE *
Renée Watson is a gifted storyteller who brings vibrant new meaning to time and place. In this beautiful blend of family, history, and culture, Watson lets us discover that one’s true home is rooted in the heart and soul. * Andrea Davis Pinkney, New York Times bestselling author of THE RED PENCIL on SOME PLACES MORE THAN OTHERS *
Renée Watson's storytelling mastery is on full display in Some Places More Than Others, which is so thematically vibrant and emotionally rich as to defy description. A magnificent book. * Mike Jung, author of UNIDENTIFIED SUBURBAN OBJECT on SOME PLACES MORE THAN OTHERS *
A beautiful novel about family and forgiveness, about the memories we carry with us wherever we go, and the places our hearts call home. * Kate Messner, award-winning author of BREAKOUT on SOME PLACES MORE THAN OTHERS *
A meaningful opportunity for students--particularly those in underrepresented communities--to celebrate themselves and their identities. * School Library Connection, starred review, on SOME PLACES MORE THAN OTHERS *
Watson is a master of structure and character development. . . . Amara’s search for her roots is tender and empowering. * School Library Journal, starred review, on SOME PLACES MORE THAN OTHERS *
A much-needed novel about the importance of roots and family connections. * Foreword Reviews, starred review, on SOME PLACES MORE THAN OTHERS *

Captures a young person’s growing enlightenment as she experiences one of the world’s most culturally rich neighborhoods. . . . Very relatable. . . . Quietly powerful.

* The New York Times Book Review on SOME PLACES MORE THAN OTHERS *
Timely and timeless. * Jacqueline Woodson, National Book Award winning author of BROWN GIRL DREAMING on PIECING ME TOGETHER *
Watson, with rhythm and style, somehow gets at . . . the life-changing power of voice and opportunity, all wrapped up in Jade. * Jason Reynolds, author of ALL AMERICAN BOYS on PIECING ME TOGETHER *
An important and deeply moving novel. * John Green, bestselling and award-winning author of THE FAULT IN OUR STARS on PIECING ME TOGETHER *
Teeming with compassion and insight. * Publishers Weekly, starred review, on PIECING ME TOGETHER *
A timely, nuanced, and unforgettable story. * Kirkus Reviews, starred review, on PIECING ME TOGETHER *
A nuanced meditation on race, privilege, and intersectionality. * SLJ, starred review, on PIECING ME TOGETHER *
Will resonate with many readers. * BCCB, starred review, on PIECING ME TOGETHER *