My Mother The Cheerleader

My Mother The Cheerleader by Robert Sharenow  has been on my reading radar for years.  Published in 2007, this historical novel should be read and discussed.

Louise Collins is a typical teenage girl who doesn't believe anything exciting could happen in her quiet neighborhood, Ninth Ward, in New Orleans.  She lives with her mom in the boardinghouse, Rooms on Desire.  Most days are the same, taking care of Mr. Landroux, who has "spells" of forgetfulness with their housekeeper, Charlotte.  She reads her favorite novels over and over to escape.  Soon enough, Louise gets more excitement than she expected.

It is 1960 and her school is desegregating.  Ruby Bridges, an African American 1st grader, has been allowed to come to her all-white school.  Angry parents pull their children out of school, which is why Louise is allowed to work at her boardinghouse most days.  Her mom is one of The Cheerleaders who heckle Ruby Bridges  

For the first time they get a patron unlike any others who have stayed at Rooms on Desire.  Morgan Miller reads, writes and listens to Louise with respect.  Originally from New Orleans, Morgan now lives in New York City and has come to visit his estranged brother. 

One afternoon Morgan decides to be a bystander, watching Ruby try to get into school.
Local people are not happy that he is there and decide to take revenge.
Louise knows what she has to do.
And her mother, eventually finds her own courage.



I would highly recommend this book to middle grades and up.  The reading itself is not difficult, but the content is high.  There is suggestion of sex, rape and violence. Strong language, but written according to the timeframe.