Andrea Elliott's Invisible Child receives praise for its powerful, empathetic portrayal of a homeless child's life in New York City, shedding light on systemic inequalities. Critics commend the thorough research and compelling narrative. However, some note the book's heaviness and dense detail can be overwhelming. Overall, it’s a poignant, eye-opening read.

Readers who appreciate Invisible Child by Andrea Elliott are typically drawn to investigative journalism and social justice themes. Fans of Evicted by Matthew Desmond or Random Family by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc will find this book compelling for its in-depth look at poverty, homelessness, and resilience in urban America.

Invisible Child by Andrea Elliott follows Dasani, an African American child in New York City, as she navigates growing up in poverty. The book, based on long-form journalism, documents Dasani's life over eight years, exploring her family's generational struggles with systemic racism, substance use, and homelessness, highlighting the interplay between individual agency and systemic barriers in their quest for a better future. This text includes depictions of violence, including assault, domestic violence, sexual violence, murder, and violence against children. It also discusses topics such as slavery, poverty, homelessness, and substance use disorders.

Informative / Challenging / Emotional / Contemplative / Melancholic

Andrea Elliott

Adult

Biography

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Invisible Child 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.

Invisible Child Summary and Study Guide

Background

Invisible Child Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “‘A House Is Not a Home’: 2012-2013”

Part 1 Invisible Child Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Sykes Family: 1835-2003”

Part 2 Invisible Child Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Root Shock: 2003-2013”

Part 3 Invisible Child Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “‘That Fire Gonna Burn!’: 2013-2015”

Part 4 Invisible Child Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Dasani’s Departure: 2015”

Part 5 Invisible Child Part 5 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “‘To Endure Any How’: 2015-2016”

Part 6 Invisible Child Part 6 Summary & Analysis

Part 7: “Dasani’s Way: 2016-2017”

Part 7 Invisible Child Part 7 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

Invisible Child Key Figures

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Themes

Invisible Child Themes

Index of Terms

Invisible Child Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

Invisible Child Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Invisible Child Essay Topics

Invisible Child: Poverty, Survival, and Hope in an American City

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Invisible Child?

Reading Age

Book Details