The Blossoming Universe of Violet Diamond

* “Violet’s a bright, engaging biracial preteen. . . . Infused with humor, hope and cleareyed compassion—a fresh take on an old paradigm.”

— Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW
 

“Woods deftly raises complex issues of race and identity and leaves them open for discussion: whether race matters, what makes a family, how it feels to be different, and what it means to be biracial. ‘To white people,’ Violet thinks, ‘I’m half black. To black people, I’m half white. . . . Is that what I am, a percentage?’”

— Publishers Weekly
 

“Violet is a winning protagonist, full of questions and full of hope. She’s believably complex. . . . Her self-conscious reflections enable readers to parse the symbolism behind her name and see how her experiences are helping her grow into a person who fits it—a sometimes shy, sometimes sparkly and strong person to whom many readers will relate.”

— The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

— various

SAINT LOUIS ARMSTRONG BEACH—Now on 8 state award lists!
        * “The dialogue is strong, smooth, and natural. The food, music, and tempo of New Orleans all come to life. . . . Woods skillfully provides a sense of the growing tension as the storm approaches. The real-life events of Hurricane Katrina . . . are integrated smoothly into the story. While the tragedy of the event is not glossed over, the overall theme is one of hope.”—SLJ, starred review
        * “Provides a vivid description of what life was like in pre-Katrina New Orleans, and how quickly peoples’ lives were shattered. The characters are well-developed, and readers truly will care about their fates.”—LMC, starred review
        “Spare, moving novel. . . . The authentic New Orleans setting works as a powerful character, adding an extra dimension to this compelling Katrina story.”—The Horn Book
       * “Gripping addition to the growing body of fiction portraying Katrina’s profound effect on children and families. . . . Woods’ marvelous characterizations of Saint and Miz Moran more than stand up to the vivid backdrop of the flooded, chaotic city. Shadow’s credulity-straining heroics will please kids. A small gem that sparkles with hope, resilience and the Crescent City’s unique, jazz-infused spirit.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review