David Barclay Moore's The Stars Beneath Our Feet offers a heartfelt, engaging narrative centered on personal growth and the power of community. Its authentic portrayal of grief and perseverance resonates strongly with readers, though some find the pacing uneven. Overall, it is praised for its positive representation and relatable, multidimensional characters.

A reader who would enjoy The Stars Beneath Our Feet by David Barclay Moore likely appreciates poignant coming-of-age stories that tackle themes of resilience, loss, and urban life. Fans of The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and Wonder by R.J. Palacio will find this compelling novel similarly engaging and heartwarming.

The Stars Beneath Our Feet follows 12-year-old Wallace "Lolly" Rachpaul, who navigates life in Harlem following his brother's tragic death, finding solace in building Lego structures with his friend Big Rose. As he creates an expansive Lego city at his after-school program, Lolly grapples with his grief, friendships, and aspirations, learning that creativity and choices shape his future. Topics include grief, gun violence, and loss of a family member.

- The Stars Beneath Our Feet by David Barclay Moore won the Coretta Scott King-John Steptoe Award for New Talent in 2018, which recognizes outstanding new African American authors or illustrators.
- The novel is set in Harlem, New York, and explores themes of community and creativity, particularly through the unique lens of LEGO building as a form of expression and healing.
- David Barclay Moore drew inspiration from his own experiences living in New York City to create the vibrant and authentic community depicted in the book.

**Wallace “Lolly” Rachpaul**  
A 12-year-old boy living in Harlem, grappling with significant personal challenges and expressing himself through building with Lego, which becomes a deeply therapeutic activity for him.

**Casimiro Vega**  
Lolly’s best friend who is playful and musically talented, facing challenges that force him to make crucial choices about his future.

**Rose Major**  
A girl in Lolly’s after-school program with a cognitive difference, who shares Lolly’s passion for building Lego and becomes an important friend in his life.

**Jermaine Rachpaul**  
Lolly's older brother who is deceased before the start of the narrative, with his life choices and legacy profoundly affecting Lolly and his family.

**Mr. Ali**  
The director of Lolly's after-school program, known for his insightful and patient demeanor, helping Lolly to confront his emotions.

**Sue-Ellen (Lolly’s Mom)**  
A loving and protective mother dealing with the loss of her son, she sometimes struggles with how to best support Lolly.

**Yvonne**  
Lolly’s mom’s girlfriend, who is supportive and goes to great lengths to help Lolly cope with his grief.

**Daddy Rachpaul**  
Lolly's father, originally from Trinidad, who values physical strength and is emotionally distant from Lolly.

**Steve Jenkins**  
A positive role model in Lolly’s life, encouraging him to pursue his artistic talents and think about his future.

**Sunnshyne Dixon-Knight**  
A fellow participant in Lolly’s after-school program who starts as a bully but grows increasingly mature as the story progresses.

David Barclay Moore

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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