I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This
I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2006
Book Brief
Beta128
Novel • Fiction
Ohio • 1990s
2006
YA
10-14 years
670L
Super Short Summary
I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson centers on the developing friendship between Marie, an African American girl, and Lena, a white girl from a troubled background. The story explores themes of race, family, and secrets as the girls navigate their complex personal lives and the societal challenges surrounding them.
Emotional
Challenging
Contemplative
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
1,456 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jacqueline Woodson's I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This is praised for its poignant exploration of friendship and complex social issues. Critics appreciate Woodson's nuanced character development and lyrical prose. Some note the narrative's brevity might limit character backstory depth. Overall, it’s a meaningful read tackling difficult topics with sensitivity and grace.
Who Should Read I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This?
Readers who appreciate I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson are typically young adults who are drawn to heartfelt stories about friendship, race, and identity. Fans of books like Brown Girl Dreaming or The Hate U Give will find this novel's poignant narrative and character-driven plot compelling.
1,456 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
128
Novel • Fiction
Ohio • 1990s
2006
YA
10-14 years
670L
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