A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry focuses on the life of the Youngers, a Black family living in the south side of Chicago in the 1950s. The family consists of Walter (Father), Ruth (Mother), Lena (Mother of Walter), Beneatha (Daughter), and Travis (Son). This family lives in a small, run-down apartment. This all changed when Ruth receives an insurance check for $10,000 because of her dead husband's life insurance. Each member of the family has different ideas on how the money should be used, which causes a lot of clashes between them all. Overall, the main focus is on the dreams of each family member and how difficult it was for an African-American family in the 1950s to achieve said dreams. The most important themes shown in the play are Dreams, Money, and Family.

Overall, this is a classic and emotional play that I believe everyone should read. It has such unforgettable characters and several heartfelt moments. This is a great play that I would recommend for ages 14 and up.

Review by: Jasmine M.

Jasmine is a virtual volunteer at Sylmar Branch Library. She is a 12th grader at Sylmar Charter High School.

—Dana Eklund, Sylmar Branch Library