- Released in 2007, Feathers earned a Newbery Honor, recognizing Jacqueline Woodson's compelling storytelling and rich exploration of themes such as hope and understanding.
- Woodson was inspired to write Feathers partially due to her own childhood experiences growing up during a time of social change and diverse new beginnings, each of which left a significant impact on her.
- Jacqueline Woodson often explores the concept of "bridges" in her work, and in Feathers, she draws heavily on the idea of bridging differences as an important step towards community and connection.

Contemplative / Hopeful / Emotional / Melancholic / Bittersweet

A reader who enjoys Feathers by Jacqueline Woodson is typically drawn to lyrical, introspective narratives dealing with themes of hope, identity, and change. Fans of Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson or Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech would find similar emotional depth and character-driven storylines.

Jacqueline Woodson's Feathers is lauded for its lyrical prose and insightful themes of hope and belonging, appealing to middle-grade readers. Critics praise its depth in addressing complex social issues through the lens of a young protagonist. However, some note the slow pace detracts slightly from engagement. Overall, it’s a poignant and thought-provoking read.

In Feathers by Jacqueline Woodson, a young girl named Frannie navigates life in 1970s America grappling with themes of hope, change, and understanding. As a new boy joins her class, Frannie and her classmates explore issues of identity, belonging, and acceptance, prompting personal growth and reflections on their community dynamics.

**Frannie Wright-Barnes**  
The observant and empathetic narrator of the novel, Frannie is a sixth grader who navigates the complexities of growing up, school dynamics, and broader social issues.

**The Jesus Boy**  
A mysterious new student at Frannie’s school, known for his calm demeanor and unique appearance, who becomes central to the story's exploration of belonging and identity.

**Trevor**  
The class bully who grapples with his feelings of shame and anger connected to his family background, and who challenges Frannie and others at the school.  

**Samantha Brown**  
Frannie’s best friend, recognized for her kindness, grace, and religious devotion, playing an important role in Franie’s understanding of faith and hope.

**Mama Wright-Barnes**  
Frannie’s caring mother, who faces physical and emotional challenges from her past but remains hopeful and resilient for her family.

**Sean Wright-Barnes**  
Frannie’s older brother, a deaf teenager who is handsome and responsible, highlighting issues related to societal divides and belonging.

Jacqueline Woodson

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Feathers reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Feathers | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Feathers and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Feathers

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Feathers?

RecommendedReading Age

Book Details