52 pages • 1 hour read
Carolyn MeyerWhite Lilacs
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1993A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
White Lilacs by Carolyn Meyer tells the story of 12-year-old Rose Lee Jefferson, an African American girl living in 1921 Freedomtown, Texas, a thriving Black community. When the white residents of the surrounding town of Dillon plan to displace Freedomtown to build a park, Rose Lee witnesses her community's fight to preserve their homes and heritage against systemic racism and class prejudice. This novel contains themes of racial violence and discrimination.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Carolyn Meyer’s White Lilacs presents a poignant depiction of racial tensions in 1920s Texas through engaging storytelling and well-developed characters. Reviewers praise its historical accuracy and emotional depth but note that the pacing can be uneven. Despite this, the novel’s exploration of resilience and community garners overall positive reception.
Who Should Read White Lilacs?
The ideal reader for White Lilacs by Carolyn Meyer would enjoy historical fiction that delves into African American experiences, particularly in the early 20th century. Fans of Mildred D. Taylor's Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry or Lois Lowry's Number the Stars will appreciate the book's rich narrative and strong, resilient characters dealing with societal challenges.
RecommendedReading Age
10-14yearsLexile Level
990LBook Details
Historical Fiction
Children's Literature
Education
Identity: Race
Society: Class
Emotions/Behavior: Courage
Race / Racism
Education
History: World