The idea behind this book was much better than the presentation. There were so many characters and only a few of them were interesting. Each had a page, or usually less, of verse dialogue that was not always clear. The main point of the book is that a ku klux klan troop formed in a small town in Vermont in 1924 and wreaked havoc and destruction, but also appealed to some of the residents. This would have been a much more interesting, educational book of it were written in chapter form. This book can also be very frightening to students in 2023, especially those younger than 14. ( )

3.5 Stars ( )

fair - Katrina

Beautifully written and nuanced book about racism 100 years ago in America, and so by design also about today in how the past effects us. Can be a little tricky with the multiple narrators but you'll get it.

Went with 5 stars because of how much of this book had stuck with me from when I read it years ago. I definitely have a better understanding of it now than I did then though. ( )

This book has eleven characters. Eleven. It is set in the year 1924 and revolves around two girls who have lost their mothers and the Ku Klux Klan takes notice. The story is told in verse, but it will take an astute reader to notice the different voices. It is set in Vermont, out of the typical southern setting you would expect. There is a theme of hope in this short (100-page book). ( )