Invisible Child

Invisible Child Book Description

Based on nearly a decade of reporting, Invisible Child follows eight dramatic years in the life of Dasani Coates, a child with an imagination as soaring as the skyscrapers near her Brooklyn homeless shelter. Born at the turn of a new century, Dasani is named for the bottled water that comes to symbolise Brooklyn’s gentrification and the shared aspirations of a divided city. As Dasani moves with her family from shelter to shelter, this story traces the passage of Dasani’s ancestors from slavery to the Great Migration north.

Dasani comes of age as New York City’s homeless crisis is exploding. In the shadows of this new Gilded Age, Dasani leads her seven siblings through a thicket of problems: hunger, parental drug addiction, violence, housing instability, segregated schools, and the constant monitoring of the child-protection system.

When, at age thirteen, Dasani enrolls at a boarding school in Pennsylvania, her loyalties are tested like never before. Ultimately, she faces an impossible question: What if leaving poverty means abandoning the family you love?

Key Features of Invisible Child

Invisible Child is a deeply moving narrative that explores the intersection of personal struggle and societal inequality. It provides a rare and intimate look into the lives of those living in poverty, particularly children. The book is grounded in real-life experiences, offering a powerful testament to resilience and the enduring strength of family bonds. With its vivid storytelling and emotional depth, this book is a compelling read for anyone interested in social justice and human resilience.

Why Read This Book?

Invisible Child is a must-read for those who want to understand the challenges faced by children in poverty and the systemic issues that contribute to their struggles. It is a story of hope, resilience, and the unbreakable ties of family. The book’s powerful narrative and emotional impact make it a standout in contemporary literature. Readers will find themselves deeply moved by Dasani’s journey and the broader implications of her story.

About This Book

Written by Andrea Elliott, Invisible Child is a groundbreaking work of nonfiction that sheds light on the hidden realities of homelessness and poverty in America. Through the life of Dasani Coates, Elliott offers a powerful and unforgettable account of the challenges faced by children in difficult circumstances. This book is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of community support in overcoming adversity.