Review of Summer of Haint Blue

[Erin Dydek]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Summer of Haint Blue" by Jimmie Martinez.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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"I guess there are as many shades of prejudice as there are skin tones."

In the Summer of Haint Blue, sixteen-year-old Justin Couvillion learns the eye-opening truths about prejudice, segregation, and racism. It's the summer of 1960 in the deep South, and the world is shifting for the naïve young boy. As changes in his life force him out of the comfort zone of his family's farm, Justin's experiences with his relatives, black neighbors, and members of the Ku Klux Clan leave him on the path to becoming a man.

Jimmie Martinez brings to life an emotional coming-of-age journey in this young adult novel about segregation in the 1960s. I loved how the author developed the relationships between Justin, his mother, and his grandfather. I also loved how Justin's perspective grew and changed as varied influences presented him with new truths that challenged the ideas he had learned growing up. Justin's mother and grandfather represented different sides of the racism conflict and helped Justin realize the strengths and weaknesses of the people he loved most. My favorite part of this novel was witnessing Justin's transformation as he realized that not everything he believed as a child was as straightforward as it appeared. I adored watching him come into his mature thinking and how he learned to stand up for the ideals in which he believed.

Martinez created so many emotional scenes that challenged my thinking and brought the racial issues of the period to life. I was often angered or sorrowed by the events and beliefs in the 1960s. I was also troubled that the outdated ways of thinking still seem to play out today. As the author developed Justin's perspective, I often found myself teary-eyed. The story filled my heart with hope that we can all change our thoughts and learn to appreciate the differences in cultures instead of allowing each race's unique aspects to create discrimination and prejudices.

I noticed a few minor errors throughout the book, but it seemed professionally edited otherwise. There was nothing that I disliked about this well-written coming-of-age story. Therefore, I give Summer of Haint Blue four out of four stars.

I would highly recommend this fantastic novel to young adult readers and anyone interested in historical stories about segregation and changing perspectives. The book remained engaging and well-paced, with few instances of swearing and no erotic content. While the author occasionally used controversial language throughout the novel, the racial slurs depicted the book's era, and the author did not intend to offend. I learned a lot about the Cajun and Creole people, and I look forward to reading more from this author.

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Summer of Haint Blue
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[Precious_Nzeakor]

We always learn new sides of life as we grow older:good and bad. Ignorance shields us from the shrewd nature of life, but it doesn't ensure survival. I think a lot of people will relate to Justin in this book. Great review.

[Elenimo Chembe]

This book is a must-read - themes of racism, segregation and prejudice are things to be talked about in our generation.

[Abeymayor]

It's a pity that till date racism is a thing of concern in our society. The book was an eye opener for the present world on prejudice

[Patty Allread]

Wow! This novel sounds like an excellent book for young adults and adults. I feel the racial issues of the 1960s are somewhat forgotten, and later generations know only what they learn in a history class. I love that this story is told in such a personal and emotionally engaging way. Beautiful review!

[Uwe Neufeld]

Racism and discrimination have no place in todays societies. These events that played out in 60s are still actuality and show, the way still to go, is a long one.
Good review!

[Waliyat_24]

Racism and discrimination still has its place in the world. Thanks for a great review!

[WriteOn]

Martinez created so many emotional scenes that challenged my thinking and brought the racial issues of the period to life. I was often angered or sorrowed by the events and beliefs in the 1960s. I was also troubled that the outdated ways of thinking still seem to play out today

You have expressed the impact this book has on you so well Everydayadventure15. It's a great review and shows how effectively the story can engage readers and enlighten them about racial issues. Books like this can contribute to ending the perpetuation of racism through the generations. Thank you.

[just_joy]

I feel so bad when I think of racism from when it dates back until now .Nothing has changed .Am looking forward to read the book .Nice review