Sugar by Jewell Parker Rhodes is praised for its vivid storytelling and rich historical context, bringing to life the challenges and resilience of its young protagonist. Readers appreciate its engaging prose and educational value. However, some critique the pacing as slow and feel the character development could be deeper. Overall, it’s seen as a valuable read for young audiences.

Readers who would enjoy Sugar by Jewell Parker Rhodes are young, history-loving enthusiasts who gravitate towards tales of resilience and friendship set in Reconstruction-era America. Comparable to those who appreciate Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor, this book appeals to middle-grade readers interested in African American heritage and historical fiction.

In Sugar by Jewell Parker Rhodes, 10-year-old Sugar befriends both the plantation owner's son and new Chinese workers on a Louisiana plantation in 1871, bridging cultural gaps and bringing hope to her community. The book explores themes of cultural empathy, resilience, and the challenges of post-Emancipation life in the South. The novel addresses racism and the legacy of slavery.

Jewell Parker Rhodes

Middle grade

Novel

The Louisiana Girls Trilogy

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Sugar reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Sugar | SuperSummary

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content

Overview

Get ready to explore Sugar and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Sugar Summary and Study Guide

Background

Sugar Background

chapter

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section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Winter, 1870”

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

Sugar Part 1, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 5-11

Sugar Part 1, Chapters 5-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Planting, 1871”

Part 2, Chapters 12-18

Sugar Part 2, Chapters 12-18 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Harvest, 1871”

Part 3, Chapters 19-27

Sugar Part 3, Chapters 19-27 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Sugar Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Sugar Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Sugar Symbols & Motifs

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citation

Important Quotes

Sugar Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Sugar Essay Topics

Sugar

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Sugar?

Reading Age

Book Details