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Katie Stuckenschneider, Social Media Specialist
8/10/2011 5:04:58 PM
This blended text, black and white graphic novel, of an 11-year-old boy named Yummy, will have your class talking. The story, set in 1990’s Chicago, begins with a bit of history about the city and the street Yummy lives on called “Normal Avenue,” which turns out to be not so normal after all. The Roseland neighborhood Yummy lives in is gang infested, to which we get a glimpse of through Yummy’s gang days.
Yummy was taken from his mom at a young age because she was abusive. His father was in prison for drugs, so he really did not have anyone to turn to for familial support or guidance. He was sent to live with his Grandmother, who had so many grandkids to watch already, that Yummy would take to the streets. Soon, he began stealing and committing crimes. A gang, known as the Black Disciples, heard about Yummy’s dangerous ways and sought him. Yummy, finally feeling like part of a family, joined. As a member of the Black Disciples, he was given a gun.
One day, he saw rival gang members in his territory, so he shot at them. He ended up accidently shooting and killing a neighborhood girl, 14-year-old Shavon. The story continues showing images of Yummy on the run and then in hiding (with his gang) from the police. The narrator continues the story through the community and media’s thoughts on Yummy. Eventually, Yummy gets tired of hiding and he calls his Grandma to come pick him up. I won’t give away the ending but it’s tragic, as most gang violence ends.
Yummy is a timeless bookclub title for classrooms, grades 7-8. This high interest, great for differentiated instruction can be extended up to 12th Grade. Numerous social issues can be discussed in the classroom after reading about Yummy, an unforgettable character.
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