It would be easier if King could talk with his best friend, Sandy Sanders.
Khalid still visits in dreams, and King must keep these secrets to himself as he watches grief transform his family. When Khalid unexpectedly passed away, he shed what was his first skin for another to live down by the bayou in their small Louisiana town. Twelve-year-old Kingston James is sure his brother Khalid has turned into a dragonfly. Although this is likely to be read independently, it would make for an excellent "family book club" read, as the story naturally creates opportunities for conversations about prejudice, loyalty, family, and friendship, as well as beliefs about death and abusive relationships.In a small but turbulent Louisiana town, one boy's grief takes him beyond the bayous of his backyard, to learn that there is no right way to be yourself. This skews toward the upper end of the middle grade audience, but I highly, highly recommend it. Courage, loyalty, and making amends, as well as being open to help are there, too. Identity is part of that theme, but not the only one. Sandy is an exceptional catalyst who helps King see himself more clearly, but also urges the reader to look in their own mirror. The story poses some interesting and important questions about family, friendship, loss, and acceptance. I also appreciated that each parent had a "voice" in expressing how they felt about King being gay and also how that contrasted with Sheriff Sanders' reaction. They are not always happy with their son, but they always love him. Their grief is no more or less than King's and illustrates that people grieve differently. Mom and Dad (albeit through Kingston's eyes) feel genuine. His bond with Khalid is clear, not just in the way he talks about his brother, but also in sharing the journal where he wrote about Khalid's dreams.
King is a strong narrator, allowing readers to connect with his emotions and thought processes.
This is a beautifully vivid story of family, loss, friendship, and renewal. Helping Sandy pushed King to come to terms with his emotions and see his world - and the love in it - more clearly. People think he "just" ran away, but he's the sheriff's son, so everyone is on the lookout. King knew where Sandy was hiding: in his backyard! He knew why Sandy left home, and he wasn't telling anyone. You don't want anyone to think you're gay, too, do you? Black people aren't allowed to be gay. If they were still friends, King might talk to him, but they aren't. On one of those afternoons, Sandy Sanders, the sheriff's son, sees King crying. Every afternoon, King goes to the bayou to spot his brother among the dragonflies that gather there. That is how Kingston "King" James knew that his brother was still here. Diverse Easy Reader | Illustrated ChapterĪt his brother Khalid's funeral, a dragonfly flew into the church and landed on the casket.
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