Transcending Tyla
(grades 6 and up)
Synopsis
Tyla comes in contact with the people of her life, but a word is never spoken in this text. Instead, the reader enters the mind of each character in order to see, hear, and feel how each responds differently to a situation. This story focuses on individual’s perspectives while also spreading light on the difficulties today’s students occasionally face in today’s society.
Sample from text
TYLA: My sister needs mama, got that in common. In charge of dinner, so it’s gonna be Ramen. I try to help her, with the homework she needs. Between her school and mine, it’s too many deeds. I tuck her in bed and relax on my own, just waitin’ for someone to throw me a bone. Tired from working, without getting paid, I lay down my head, the future afraid.
MAMA: In my early thirties, but feel twenty years older. Want to be with my baby, to love her and hold her. Kills me to miss, tucking each of ‘em in bed. Just hoping and praying, that they were both fed. I watch ‘em sleep, so quietly in peace. As the background echoes sounds of the police. The sirens are screamin’, our streets are rough, kids are forced to act way too tough. They’re growing up fast and it doesn’t seem fair. Tired but can’t sleep, just look at the ceiling and stare. So much on my mind, constantly think of my girls, each one worthy of diamonds and pearls. Instead, hand-me-downs are the clothes that they wear. They both deserve better, end the day with a prayer.