This emotionally powerful novel gets right to the essence of what a young adult novel should be, empathetically exploring the experience of a teenage girl. Kendra is dealing with depression, the social dynamics of the black community, family problems, and abuse, yet holding on to a core of optimism that will help her become a strong and successful adult. Kendra is the first member of her family to reconnect with her missing sister, Meisha, who ran away a decade earlier. Meisha's return puts a strain on the family when the reason behind her departure is finally revealed. Kendra's talent and strong desire to be a writer bring the attention of her English teacher, but this also leaves her vulnerable to her famous sports announcer uncle, CJ. Desperate for attention, Kendra ignores the warning signs; CJ gains her confidence and offers her a laptop to use in his apartment. The abuse that follows is not described in detail and is not the only defining point for the character. An excellent read for any girl who feels misunderstood, or for readers that remember what it felt like to be confused and hurt, but hopeful as they moved toward adulthood.
**********
I love this excerpt. It is timely and interesting. I am very curious to see where the older sister has been all these years and what has happened to her. I think this will be an excellent book. ~Amazon.com review of K My Name Is Kendra excerpt
**********
Truly great writing on an empathetic level...an outstanding example of what young adult literature is all about. ~Amazon.com review of K My Name Is Kendra excerpt
**********
By the end of page one, I felt a little like I was reading my diary from ten years ago (when I was almost 16 and a high school sophomore). "K My Name is Kendra" is genuinely that realistic, and I am sure that other woman and teen girls can/will agree. I almost wish that Kendra was a real girl so I could hug her, offer her some chocolate, and lend her to some of my friends whose shoulders make great tear-catchers. This novel is painfully honest... ~Customer review of K My Name Is Kendra excerpt
**********
I loved the voice and the easy-going attitude and style of this piece. Kendra's very down to earth and you can't help but like her and root for her. ~Customer review of K My Name Is Kendra excerpt
********** This story hits all of your emotions...the suspense built led to me wanting more. I want to know exactly what happens next. ~Customer review of K My Name Is Kendra excerpt
