TL;DR
Blended by Sharon M. Draper is a heartfelt exploration of a biracial girl navigating her parents' divorce, racism, and her own identity.
What is Blended about
Blended by Sharon M. Draper tells the story of eleven-year-old Isabella, a biracial girl grappling with her identity amidst her parents' divorce. Living alternately with her white mother and black father, Isabella experiences the disparities of two different worlds. The novel delves into the complexities of race and family dynamics, portraying Isabella's struggle to reconcile her mixed heritage and the division between her parents. The story reaches a climax when a racially charged incident forces Isabella to confront the harsh realities of society and her place within it.
Blended 5 Key Takeaways
Isabella's Split Life
Isabella lives between two homes, switching weekly between her white mom and black dad. This duality symbolizes her struggle with identity and belonging.
Parental Engagements
Both of Isabella's parents get engaged, increasing her sense of division and confusion about where she fits in each family.
Racial Identity
Isabella grapples with being biracial, feeling torn between her black and white heritage, and questions how she can ever feel whole when she's seen as only halves.
Police Confrontation
A critical moment occurs when Isabella and her stepbrother Darren are stopped by police, leading to a tragic misunderstanding and shots fired, underscoring the perils of racial profiling.
Reconciliation
The incident with the police becomes a catalyst for Isabella's family to come together and support each other, highlighting themes of unity and resilience in the face of adversity.
Blended Videos
Book Trailer - YouTube
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Blended Best Reviews
- Publishers Weekly describes Blended as 'timely but genuine,' praising its exploration of race and identity through the eyes of a young girl.
- Kirkus Reviews commends Draper for her 'honest and reflective' portrayal of complex family dynamics and societal issues.
Top Blended Quotes
- “If you’re only seen as half of this and half of that, how can you ever feel whole?”
- “I feel like a tug-of-war rope, as if Mom and Dad each hold one of my arms and pull—I'm the rope, though, who gets stretched and hurt.”
Who should read Blended?
Blended is ideal for young readers navigating the complexities of identity, race, and family dynamics. It offers valuable perspectives for those experiencing similar challenges and fosters empathy in readers of all backgrounds.
Blended FAQs
What is the main message of the book Blended?
The main message of Blended is the exploration of identity, race, and the impact of divorce on adolescents, emphasizing the struggle to find wholeness amidst divided loyalties and societal challenges.
What is the main conflict in the book Blended?
The main conflict in Blended revolves around Isabella's struggle with her biracial identity and the emotional turmoil caused by her parents' divorce, culminating in a racially charged police incident.
What reading level is Blended?
Blended is suitable for readers at a Level Y reading proficiency, making it accessible to young adult readers.