Sharon M. Draper's Double Dutch is praised for its engaging plot and realistic portrayal of adolescent challenges. Readers appreciate the diverse characters and the strong friendship themes. Criticisms include a slower pace in some sections and underdeveloped subplots. Despite minor drawbacks, it remains a compelling and heartwarming read for young audiences.

A reader who would enjoy Double Dutch by Sharon M. Draper is typically a young adult interested in contemporary, relatable stories about overcoming challenges, friendship, and personal growth. Similar readers might enjoy Wonder by R.J. Palacio and The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis.

Double Dutch by Sharon M. Draper follows eighth-grade students who prepare for a national jump rope competition while navigating personal challenges. Randy, Delia, and Yolanda bond over their struggles, including secrets and self-discovery. The story highlights themes of friendship, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Inspirational / Heartwarming / Challenging / Emotional / Hopeful

**Delia Douglas**  
Delia is the empathetic and disciplined protagonist who excels at Double Dutch while grappling with a secret reading difficulty. Her relationships with her teammates and friends, especially Yolanda and Randy, play a central role in her story.

**Randy Youngblood**  
Randy is a friendly and mature protagonist with a carefree demeanor who supports the Double Dutch team despite personal challenges. He deals with family issues alone and cares deeply for Delia.

**Yolanda Pepper**  
Yolanda is Delia’s bold and entertaining best friend and teammate on the Queen Bees Double Dutch team. She is known for telling exaggerated stories and enjoys being the center of attention.

**Tabu and Titan Tolliver**  
Tabu and Titan are twin brothers who dress in black and initially seem intimidating to their classmates. They reveal a more sensitive and misunderstood side as the story unfolds.

**Misty**  
Misty is a dedicated and skilled jumper on the Queen Bees from another school. Double Dutch provides her with structure and support during difficult times in her personal life.

**Bomani**  
Bomani is the kind and supportive coach of the Double Dutch team, who plays a significant role in boosting the jumpers' confidence. He becomes an important figure in Randy’s life.

**Mr. Youngblood**  
Mr. Youngblood is Randy’s father, a long-haul trucker who is attentive and beloved in the community. His absence at the beginning of the story is out of character and deeply affects Randy.

**Mrs. Douglas**  
Mrs. Douglas is Delia’s mother, who is caring but sometimes not fully attentive. She becomes supportive when she learns about Delia’s struggles.

**Mr. Douglas**  
Mr. Douglas is Delia’s father, who has remarried after divorcing Delia’s mother. Delia navigates her feelings about her father and his new wife while visiting them on weekends.

**Mr. Clifford**  
Mr. Clifford is the owner of the local pawn shop who subtly supports Randy during a difficult time. He acts as a surrogate father figure, recognizing Randy’s maturity and needs.

Sharon M. Draper

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Chapters 1-5

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