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Parents' Guide to

Jump at the Sun: The True Life Tale of Unstoppable Storycatcher Zora Neale Hurston

By Diondra K. Brown, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 6+

Shining story about adventurous life of celebrated writer.

Book Alicia D. Williams Picture Book 2023
Jump at the Sun cover: young girl, wearing overalls, stands in a field and jumps up towards the bright sky.

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What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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What's the Story?

JUMP AT THE SUN: THE TRUE LIFE TALE OF UNSTOPPABLE STORYCATCHER ZORA NEALE HURSTON is initially set in the town of Eatonville, Florida, and follows the adventures of curious and intelligent Zora. Inspired by her love of hearing folk stories at her town's general store, Zora developed a love for being a storycatcher at a young age. She shared the stories she overheard with anyone who would listen. After having a sad childhood (her mother passed away, her father remarried, and her stepmother wasn't very loving or attentive), she moves to Maryland, Washington, D.C., and eventually New York City to pursue her education and hopes of becoming a writer. Eventually her stories turned from things she had seen or overheard, to stories of her own creation. She never gave up on her determination to follow her dreams and jump at the sun. Eventually, Zora returned to her home in the American South and became an acclaimed and influential writer.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Zora Neale Hurston is known for her incredible books, and now this beautifully illustrated picture book shares her inspiring life story with young readers. Jump at the Sun: The True Life Tale of Unstoppable Storycatcher Zora Neale Hurston is filled with bright images. Illustrator Jacqueline Alcántara includes many hidden details and bold colors on each page. The book is a little long for young readers, and some may find the Southern twang to be somewhat confusing. But it's a sweet reminder that no dream is too big, and anyone can reach the sun.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how in Jump at the Sun: The True Life Tale of Unstoppable Storycatcher Zora Neale Hurston is determined to get her education and write stories about her life. What would you want to write stories about?

  • Zora's curiosity about the world around her helped her become a storycatcher and a storyteller. What are you curious about?

  • The book is filled with beautiful illustrations. Which one is your favorite?

Book Details

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