Synopses & Reviews
From the beloved author of President of the Whole Fifth Grade, a story about a young Black girl who summons the courage to fight against a racist dress code-and stand up for herself.
Twelve-year-old Lotus Bloom is a free spirit with a mega-'fro she's affectionately named "the wooly mammoth." A talented violinist, she just switched from her inner-city school to a fancy arts academy. Her best friend Rebel is quick to point out the funding disparities between schools, and urges Lotus to help her protest, but Lotus isn't sure; if she's going to be in the spotlight, she'd rather it be for her music.
But then a classroom prank — boys thinking it's hilarious to throw wads of paper into Lotus's hair — escalates after she reports it to the administration and shockingly finds herself facing suspension. Lotus must choose whether to stay quiet and risk everything she's worked so hard for, or fight back. Is this school really where she belongs?
Inspired by stories of real Black girls advocating against unjust, racist school dress codes across the country, beloved middle grade author Sherri Winston introduces another memorable character who decides to speak up for what's right, no matter what it takes.
Review
"Through the eyes of a sprightly, determined student, Winston delivers a powerful message about anti-Blackness, bullying, and institutionalized prejudice." Publisher's Weekly (Starred Review)
Review
"Lotus is a unique and deeply realized character...and the themes of inequality and racism in schools resonate. A first purchase for public and school libraries, and an excellent choice for book clubs." School Library Journal (Starred Review)
Review
"The text brings themes of racism and protest to the forefront, making it a solid conversation starter....A relatable novel that will encourage readers to fight for their rights." Kirkus Reviews
Review
"This captivating novel raises issues of racial discrimination, educational equity, and classism in an approachable way, which will invite readers to consider multiple perspectives through the lively cast of diverse, multifaceted characters." The Horn Book
About the Author
Sherri Winston is the author of President of the Whole Fifth Grade (a Sunshine State Young Readers Award selection), President of the Whole Sixth Grade (a Kids' Indie Next pick), President of the Whole Sixth Grade: Girl Code, The Sweetest Sound (a Kirkus Best Book of the Year), Jada Sly: Artist & Spy, and The Kayla Chronicles. Before Sherri was an author, she was a longtime newspaper writer and columnist. She grew up in Michigan and now lives in Orlando, Florida.
www.sherriwinston.com
Twitter: @sherriwinston
Instagram: @iamsherriwinston