Two friends, a writer and a runner, have big ambitions, but it’s hard to get by in Harlem where they live. Walter Dean Myers is a national treasure—no, he’s a treasure for the whole planet. ( )

Theme:
The theme of the book friendship and how opposites can be friends.

Plot Summary:
It is about two boys in high school who live in Harlem. Darius is a black boy who lives with his younger brother and his alcoholic mom. Mom cares, but drinks a lot and struggles financially. Darius is a writer. The book is in his perspective. Twig is a hispanic boy. He is a very good runner. He is not smart academically, but he can outrun almost anyone. He gets grief from family about running. The story is about their lives in Harlem. They have to deal with big races, financial problems, drive by shootings, death, gang disputes and members, and living in poverty. Despite all these odds and events against them, they learn to accept their lives and try to be their best selves. Darius and Twig are great friends who look out for each other and bring out the best in each other.

Personal Response:
"Darius and Twig" is a great book! Darius and Twig are great examples of friendship. They lift each other up and help each other get through life. The book does a great job of showing a culture and home life that some students might not know much about. Darius and Twig go through high school and overcome a lot. They have to deal with bullies, overworked parents, family members who do not understand, self doubt, and perseverance.

Curricular Connection:
You could have students connect with a character from the book, and explain how they connect with that character. You could also have students draw a new cover for the book on how they think Darius and Twig would look like based on text evidence. You could also have discussions about race, poverty, high school roles, and family. Students can come up or write about how the story would be different if it were set in a different location. ( )

At first I wasn't sure about Darius & Twig (another bully story?). By the third chapter, I was all in. I love the friendship that Darius and Twig have. It is innocent, honest, and still realistic to their ages. Given their environments the boys have (and share) wisdom that seems wise beyond their years. The story artfully weaves together their passions for running and writing, but allows Darius and Twig to have their own spaces, too.

Pros: Darius & Twig is a pick-me-up story that will resonate with teens. Exceptional writing and spot-on characters will have even the most dormant reader wanting to hang out on the stoop a little longer.

There's more to our review. Visit The Reading Tub®. While you’re there, add a link to your review of the book.

Darius and Twig are best friends. Life in Harlem is tough for young black high schoolers like themselves, but they feel their lives should be different from what they witness everyday in the streets of their neighborhood.

Read the rest of my review on my blog (are you following it yet? If not, what are you waiting for?): http://shouldireaditornot.wordpress.com/2013/07/02/darius-twig-walter-dean-myers...

( )