Blended by Sharon M. Draper

Sharon M. Draper’s Blended is a powerful and relatable story about identity, family, and figuring out where you fit in. The book follows 11-year-old Isabella, whose parents are divorced—her dad is Black, her mom is white—and she feels like she’s constantly switching between two worlds. As she moves between their homes, their expectations, and even their cultures, she struggles to figure out who she really is.
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Draper does an amazing job capturing what it’s like to be a middle schooler dealing with family changes and big questions about race and identity. The story is easy to read but doesn’t shy away from tough topics, including racism and feeling torn between two sides of yourself. There’s even a shocking and emotional moment involving police violence that makes this book especially relevant.
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Despite its important themes, Blended has been banned in some schools for addressing race, privilege, and police brutality. However, these are exactly the kinds of conversations that make the book so valuable. Draper handles these issues with honesty and sensitivity, making Blended a must-read for young readers and adults alike.

Reserve the book at the library or download the eBook or audiobook with your SPL card.

Aimee Clark, IT Librarian