Review of Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero by Kelly J. Baptist
Have you ever found yourself propping up a world that feels like it’s teetering on the edge? That’s precisely the feeling that washed over me while reading Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero by Kelly J. Baptist. From the moment I immersed myself in Isaiah’s journey, I felt a profound connection to this young boy grappling with grief, responsibility, and the quest for heroism in everyday life. As readers, we often wonder: Are we our own heroes, and how can we uplift others? This heartfelt story explores those questions beautifully.
At its core, Isaiah Dunn is a narrative steeped in complex yet relatable themes of grief, family dynamics, homelessness, and community support. Isaiah is not just a boy dealing with the loss of his father; he’s a young man thrust into the role of caretaker for his younger sister, navigating the turbulent waters of his mother’s depression and their impending loss of home. Watching him attempt to hold everything together while wrestling with his own emotions was both heartbreaking and inspiring. His four-year-old sister, endless in her curiosity, sees him as her hero, which adds an emotional layer to his already heavy burden.
Baptist’s writing strikes a compelling balance between youthful wonder and the harsh realities that can accompany growing up. The narrative flows at a poignant pace, allowing readers to sit with Isaiah’s feelings of despair and hope alike. One moment that stood out to me was when Isaiah escapes to the library—a safe haven where he reads the stories his father wrote for him. This connection to literature not only serves as a form of comfort but also exemplifies the book’s larger theme of the power of words. In many ways, the library becomes a character itself, a nurturing space where stories grow and heroes are born.
The subtle nods to heroes in our everyday lives—librarians, barbers, and even neighborly figures—are woven throughout the story, making it rich with insight. It’s a beautiful depiction of how heroism exists in the small acts of kindness from those around us. I found myself particularly touched by the community’s ability to rally around struggling kids, offering support and reminding us how we all can uplift one another.
This middle-grade gem not only provides a heartwarming narrative but also addresses heavier themes—grief, homelessness, and bullying—in ways that are profound yet gentle. I appreciated how these elements were presented with care, allowing young readers to confront complex subjects while still feeling hopeful. The book serves as an essential conversation starter for discussing these topics with kids, ensuring that difficult realities are met with optimism.
I wholeheartedly recommend Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero to middle-grade readers and adults who cherish insightful storytelling that blends heart and hope. This book will resonate with those who appreciate poignant narratives, as well as readers eager for diverse perspectives in their literary selections. Personally, I found it to be a impactful journey—one that stirred my own reflections on heroism and the never-ending battle of ups and downs in the tapestry of family life.
If you’re looking to add a book that is not just enjoyable but also impacts your heart and mind, this one definitely deserves a spot on your shelf. It’s a modern tale of resilience and love that I’m sure will linger long after the final page is turned. For more reviews and literary explorations, feel free to visit my blog at Reading Ladies.
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