Flake, Sharon G. (2005). Who Am I Without Him? Short Stories About Girls and the Boys in Their Lives. New York : Jump at the Sun/Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 9780786815043.
Plot Summary
This collection of stories follows girls from different backgrounds who navigate the world of relationships. Some boys are "dogs" and don't know how to treat a girl right, but the girls stay with them anyway. A girl can't stand when her boyfriend looks at other girls. A girl is attracted to her friend's boyfriend and must decide if friendship is more important than obtaining a good-looking man. A father writes a letter to his daughter reminding her to always stand up for herself and remember that love is more important than staying in bad relationships. These are just some of the stories about young girls and the boys they love.
Critical Evaluation
Although the characters in the book are African-American, the themes in the book are about love and relationships. These themes are universal so the book can be enjoyed by girls of all races. Flake writes with such honesty and realness that it is hard not to connect with all the characters. All girls need to find some kind of self-worth and this book addresses this.
Reader's Annotation
Twelve stories about love and relationships geared to African American girls.
About the Author
Sharon G. Flake won the Coretta Scott King/ John Steptoe Award for New Talent for her novel, The Skin I'm In. She is also a two-time winner of the Coretta Scott King Author Honor Book. Flake lives in Pittsburgh.
Genre
Short Stories, African American, Romance
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Booktalking Ideas
1) The book is geared towards African American girls. Is there a difference in how they love than how girls of other races love?
2) Discuss which stories stuck out to you more and why.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I wanted to include multicultural titles for girls.
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