Romiette and Julio by Sharon M. Draper intertwines modern romance with classic themes. Readers appreciate its fresh take on Shakespeare’s tale and its handling of social issues. While praised for relatable characters and a gripping plot, some critique the dialogue as unrealistic and the story's predictability. Overall, it engages a young audience effectively.

Fans of modern retellings of classic tales like West Side Story or readers who enjoy dramatic, teenage romance with a touch of suspense will be captivated by Romiette and Julio by Sharon M. Draper. This novel resonates with those who appreciate socially conscious themes akin to those in The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas.

Drawing on William Shakespeare’s iconic play Romeo and Juliet, the tragedy of two star-crossed lovers trying to love in a world of hate, Sharon M. Draper’s Romiette and Julio (1999) tells the story of two Cincinnati high school students whose interracial relationship (as 16-year-old Romiette “Romi” Cappelle is Black and 16-year-old Julio Montague is Hispanic) raises the ire of the gang that rules their school. In addition to examining gangs in inner-city high schools and the toxic logic of racism, the novel celebrates the power of young love and friendship.

Romantic / Inspirational / Suspenseful / Emotional / Heartwarming

Sharon M. Draper

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Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Romiette and Julio 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.

Romiette and Julio Summary and Study Guide

Background

Romiette and Julio Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-13

Romiette and Julio Chapters 1-13 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 14-28

Romiette and Julio Chapters 14-28 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 29-39

Romiette and Julio Chapters 29-39 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 40-52

Romiette and Julio Chapters 40-52 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 53-62

Romiette and Julio Chapters 53-62 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Romiette and Julio Character Analysis

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Themes

Romiette and Julio Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Romiette and Julio Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Romiette and Julio Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Romiette and Julio Essay Topics

Romiette and Julio

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Romiette and Julio?

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Book Details