Sonny's Blues

Three short stories about life in Harlem for young black children. Other reviewers have pointed to the 1950's which seems right with situations described - eg mention of horse and cart deliveries, motor cars, the evolved state of jazz (“Like Louis Armstrong?”... “No. I'm not talking about none of that old-time, down-home crap.”)

These are not happy memory stories, they are hard times. Themes include disconnection (and reconnection) of family, drugs, jazz, parental relationship / control of children, societal disconnection.

Well written, realistic and atmospheric - great description in these short, easy to read stories.

Four stars.