Clouds over California

Gr 4-6–Parsons’s (How High the Moon) newest middle grade novel sets readers in 1970s California as the Black Panther Party rises to prominence and the women’s rights movement disrupts previously-established gender roles. The narrative centers Stevie, a sixth-grader, as she navigates dicey social situations at a new school while her home life is simultaneously upended. Naomi, Stevie’s high-school aged cousin, has come to live with them from the East Coast in a familial attempt to “correct” Naomi’s behavior. Stevie’s mom, who is Black, goes back to school in secret while ex-CIA Dad, who is white, wields patriarchy like a mental and emotional weapon. This book is impressive in scope, addressing racism, patriarchy, policing, social dynamics, secrecy and truth, etc. While an admirable attempt, the result is an overstuffed narrative that ultimately feels like a collection of unfinished vignettes instead of a cohesive piece. Interestingly, the setting struggles to ground itself until much later in the book when specific indicators are provided (e.g. Black Panther fundraisers). Stevie’s growth throughout the story is a strength, particularly as she learns to stand up for herself and set boundaries around her body and appearance.