Unstoppable Octobia May

It's 1953, and 10-year-old Octobia May believes that "freedom is as big as the moon for a colored gal who ain't afraid of nothing." She's eager to follow in her Aunt Shuma's footsteps and go after what she wants, even if others disapprove. But trying to prove that her aunt's insomniac boarder, Mr. Davenport, is a vampire could be too risky, even for brave, quick-thinking Octobia May. After she thinks she sees Mr. Davenport murdering a woman on the street, she is targeted by the boarder, who is a wealthy banker, and an Irish policeman who thinks she's up to no good. Three-time Coretta Scott King Honoree Flake (The Skin I'm In) offers a fast-paced mystery that traces Octobia May's journey into dangerous territory at a time when women and African-Americans struggled to exercise their rights. Though some of Octobia May's feats push plausibility and some secrets about Mr. Davenport's past too easily discovered, Flake provides an eye-opening picture of post-WWII America. Octobia May is a determined sleuth who will win the admiration of Flake's fans. Ages 8-12. Agent: Linda Pratt, Wernick & Pratt. (Sept.)

Gr 3-6--Octobia May has an untamed imagination. When she moves in with her Auntie Shuma, Octobia spends her days doing chores with her pretend servant friends, talking to the graves of the Before Girls at the nearby cemetery, and trying to unveil one of Auntie's boarders, Mr. Davenport, as the vampire he is. With the help of her friends, Jonah and Bessie, Octobia uncovers the dastardly deeds of Mr. Davenport, although the deeds have more to do with bank robbery and murder than with drinking blood. This story paints a realistic portrait of life for an African American girl in the 1950s, but the characterization and plot are marred by unclear writing. While the plot meanders, little information is offered about Octobia's (or any other character's) backstory, leaving readers ungrounded throughout the tale. Awkward quote attributions and murky action may have been meant to add to the mysterious nature of the plot, but fall short as one passage may take several examinations to comprehend. The way the adults, especially police officer O'Malley, in this story inexplicably flounder about with a cold-blooded murderer on the loose is unbelievable. Short chapters begin with a thick, black border, and a selected bibliography of relevant history ends the novel. While Octobia and other well-rounded characters were enjoyable and the overall plot was exciting, a less complicated writing style would have better highlighted the good this story offered.--Brittany Staszak, Glencoe Public Library, IL

Praise for PINNED:

* Brilliantly realized...An uplifting story that convincingly celebrates the power of perseverance.—KIRKUS REVIEWS, starred review

* ...constructing two authentic, distinct voices that expose the strengths and flaws of both teenagers...—PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, starred review

* Autumn and Adonis, in addition to the supporting characters—parents, teachers, and friends alike—have distinctive personalities and voices, enhancing the story's depth and complexity.—THE HORN BOOK, starred review