The Way a Door Closes

i read this book several times, and with each reading i was drawn deeper and deeper into the rhythm of the words and the souls of the characters. it's a must-read for every age level. the author, hope smith, is a true blessing.

This story is in the voice of 13 year-old C.J. as he tries to deal with the loss of his family. This book is recommended for grades 4 through 8 and thats really a good age target for this book. These poems give a clear, lovelyview of what C.J. is dealing with in his life. They tell a contemporary family story in an African American home. For a long time everything is blissfully happy. It shows what a family can go through, the ups and the downs that come with life. The plain words and beautifully individualized pictures express the family anguish. The poems are an account of the life and times of C.J.'s family. Readers can identfy with the struggle, ups, and downs of C.J.'s family. The results are poems that are heartbreaking, angry, and tender.

Smith is absoluetly astounding in the way she captures the raw emotion felt by CJ. The gradmothers place in the story is gut wrenching having to watch her family in this situation. Smith should be commended as she did a wonderful job showing her audience what it is life when someone important to you walks out of your life. It's all in the way the door closes. This story explores life on so many different levels. . This is a must read for all children... Superb! James Smith