Autobiography of My Dead Brother
Autobiography of My Dead Brother
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005
Book Brief
224
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York • Contemporary
2005
YA
12-18 years
730L
Super Short Summary
Autobiography of My Dead Brother, a 2005 young adult novel by Walter Dean Myers, is set in Harlem, New York, and tells the story of Jesse Givens, a teenager with artistic ambitions, as he witnesses his best friend Rise succumb to gang culture. Inspired by Myers's own experiences with gang violence, the novel explores themes of friendship, violence, and inequality. Topics in the book include gang involvement and death.
Emotional
Gritty
Challenging
Melancholic
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
1,182 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Autobiography of My Dead Brother by Walter Dean Myers reveals the turbulent lives of urban teens through hauntingly realistic prose and evocative illustrations. Praised for its authentic depiction of friendship and gang violence, some critics find its plot progression uneven and character development lacking depth. Overall, it’s a compelling, albeit flawed, narrative.
Who Should Read Autobiography of My Dead Brother?
Fans of The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton or Monster by Walter Dean Myers will find much to love in Autobiography of My Dead Brother. This book appeals to young adult readers interested in urban life, coming-of-age stories, and exploring themes of friendship, loss, and resilience in the face of adversity.
1,182 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
224
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York • Contemporary
2005
YA
12-18 years
730L
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