Look Both Ways Book Summary
A Tale Told in Ten Blocks
TL;DR
A collection of ten interconnected short stories by Jason Reynolds, 'Look Both Ways' explores the lives of middle school kids walking home from school, touching on themes of friendship, compassion, and the transition from childhood to adulthood.
What is Look Both Ways about
'Look Both Ways: A Tale Told in Ten Blocks' is a collection of ten short stories set in an unnamed city. The narratives revolve around students from Latimer Middle School and unfold within the same day as they walk home. Each story delves into the relationships, interests, and experiences of these young individuals, revealing the unique yet interconnected moments of their lives. Jason Reynolds' intention was to capture the only time of day when young kids are often unsupervised—their walk home from school.
Look Both Ways 5 Key Takeaways
Theme of Friendship and Compassion
The stories are linked by common themes of friendship and compassion, showcasing how these young individuals support and connect with one another.
Transition from Childhood to Adulthood
The book captures the in-between moments of childhood and adulthood, highlighting the growth and challenges faced by middle school students.
Everyday Challenges
Real-world issues such as cancer, poverty, and bullying are sensitively addressed, providing a realistic portrayal without explicit content.
Interconnected Stories
Though each story stands alone, they are interconnected, reflecting the diverse yet shared experiences of the characters in the same community.
Slice-of-life Narratives
The slice-of-life approach gives an intimate glimpse into the mundane yet significant aspects of the characters’ lives after school.
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Look Both Ways Best Reviews
- 'Reynolds proves once again that he is a master of his craft, offering rich, genuine, and relatable experiences in a compelling collection.' - Booklist
- 'An outstanding collection that sheds light on the nuances of growing up in today's world, capturing both the lighthearted and serious moments.' - Kirkus Reviews
Top Look Both Ways Quotes
- 'The world had given her a little scarred heart, but it was still beating.'
- 'Maybe it's okay to break sometimes, as long as you keep picking up the pieces.'
Who should read Look Both Ways?
'Look Both Ways' is ideal for readers aged 10 and up. It is especially beneficial for young readers dealing with real-life issues like friendship, bullying, and personal growth, offering relatable stories and valuable insights.
Look Both Ways FAQs
What is the book 'Look Both Ways' about?
'Look Both Ways' is a collection of ten short stories about students from Latimer Middle School walking home from school, exploring their relationships and experiences.
What is the main idea of 'Look Both Ways'?
The main idea revolves around friendship, compassion, and the transition from childhood to adulthood, depicted through the everyday moments of walking home from school.
What reading level is 'Look Both Ways'?
It is suitable for readers aged 10 and up, addressing real-life issues like cancer, poverty, and bullying without explicit content.