Midnight Without a Moon by Linda Williams Jackson is praised for its compelling narrative and rich historical context, depicting the struggles of an African American girl in 1950s Mississippi. Reviewers laud the authentic portrayal of racism and strong character development. However, some mention a slow-paced plot. Overall, it is seen as a powerful and evocative read.

Readers who enjoyed The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis or Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor will find Midnight Without a Moon captivating. This poignant historical novel, set in the 1950s South, appeals to those interested in civil rights, powerful family narratives, and coming-of-age stories.

In the summer of 1955, 13-year-old Rose Lee Carter navigates the complexities of growing up Black in the rural Mississippi Delta town of Stillwater. She dreams of moving north to pursue higher education but confronts the harsh realities of racism, familial loyalty, and colorism as she witnesses and processes the murder of Emmett Till. Rose ultimately decides to stay in Mississippi to fight for racial justice and embrace her community. The novel contains depictions of racial hatred and violence, including lynchings and abuse.

Challenging / Emotional / Inspirational / Melancholic

**Rose Lee Carter “Rosa”**  
The 13-year-old protagonist and narrator who dreams of moving north and pursuing a profession in medicine or law while dealing with her responsibilities and living with her grandparents in Mississippi.  

**Hallelujah Jenkins**  
Rose's best friend and the son of the local reverend, who shares news with Rose and engages in discussions about their humanitarian and political beliefs.  

**Aunt Belle Carter**  
Rose's nurturing and supportive aunt who is an accomplished cosmetologist and activist, engaged to Monty and living in Saint Louis.  

**Ma Pearl Carter “Miss Sweet”**  
Rose's grandmother, known for her strict and authoritarian manner, who has strong opinions about racial dynamics and the family’s behavior.  

**Papa (Paul) Ellis Carter**  
Rose's grandfather, a skilled farmer respected by their employer but hesitant to engage in civil rights activism due to the risks involved.  

**Queen**  
Rose's fair-skinned cousin who lives with Ma Pearl and is favored by her, leading a life of leisure under her grandmother’s care.

Linda Williams Jackson

Middle grade

Novel

Rose Lee Carter

Fiction

Guide

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Part 1: “July”

Part 1 Midnight Without a Moon Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “August”

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Part 3: “September”

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Part 4: “October”

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Midnight Without a Moon

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