Money Hungry by Sharon G. Flake is praised for its compelling exploration of poverty and determination. Readers appreciate the authentic voice of the protagonist and the realistic depiction of economic struggles. However, some critics find the plot somewhat predictable and wish for more complex character development. Overall, it's impactful but occasionally simplistic.

Readers who appreciate Sharon G. Flake's Money Hungry are typically young adults who enjoy contemporary, realistic fiction that delves into themes of poverty, family dynamics, and aspiration. Fans of Angie Thomas's The Hate U Give and Jacqueline Woodson's Brown Girl Dreaming will find this novel engaging and thought-provoking.

Money Hungry by Sharon G. Flake follows 13-year-old Raspberry Hill, whose obsession with making money stems from her past experiences with homelessness. Determined to secure a better life for her and her mother, Raspberry engages in various schemes that jeopardize her relationships and well-being. The novel delves into themes of greed, the effects of childhood trauma, and the challenges of living in poverty. This book includes references to homelessness and economic hardship.

Challenging / Emotional / Gritty / Hopeful / Inspirational

**Raspberry Hill**  
A resourceful and determined 13-year-old girl who is focused on earning money to improve her and her mother's living situation after experiencing past hardships, including homelessness. Her efforts often involve creative but sometimes questionable money-making schemes.

**Momma**  
Raspberry’s mother, a resilient and hardworking woman who juggles college classes and part-time jobs in an effort to secure a better future for her daughter. She values strong morals and dreams of upward mobility while dealing with past trauma.

**Zora Mitchell**  
A friend of Raspberry’s who enjoys joining her in money-making plans but is mostly motivated by a desire for material goods. She comes from a more privileged background and struggles with her parents’ recent divorce.

**Dr. Mitchell**  
Zora’s father and Momma’s potential love interest, known for his morals and kindness. He interacts with Raspberry and Momma when they work at the soup kitchen and supports their efforts to overcome their struggles.

**Mai Kim**  
A close friend of Raspberry who navigates her biracial identity and family challenges. She is the daughter of a Black mother and Korean father and feels a stronger connection to her Black identity.

**Ja’nae**  
Another of Raspberry’s close friends who lives with her grandparents due to her mother’s absence. She exhibits kindness and selflessness, often acting as a moral compass among her friends.

Sharon G. Flake

Middle grade

Novel

Raspberry Hill

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

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Money Hungry Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

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Chapters 5-8

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Chapters 9-12

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Chapters 13-15

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Chapters 16-20

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Chapters 21-23

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Chapters 24-28

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Character Analysis

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Themes

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Introduction

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Before Reading

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Money Hungry

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