A Raisin in the Sun is based on a poem called "A Dream Deferred" by Langston Hughes. The story opens with the main character (Walter) in Chicago struggling to survive. Walter lives in a small apartment with his wife, his son, his mother (who has always dreamed of owning a home in a nice neighborhood), and his sister (who wants to be a doctor and will need tuition money soon). Most of the time is spent arguing. Because this story is set in the 1950s, the family also has to deal with racism and segregation, which creates even more problems. Walter's family has to decide whether they can trust him.
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Walter seems to deal with his problems one of two ways: lashing out or drinking. His sister generally berates him and when she brings an African friend home, he returns the favor. Walter is famous for being a drunk failure, but this time he has convinced everyone that he's part of a small group of men who will pool their money together for a get rich quick scheme. Then, Walter's wife finds out that she is pregnant and she feels pressure from Walter to have an abortion. Everyone in the family is skeptical, but eventually, he convinces his mother that he can do it just when she comes into a large amount of money.
Best part of story, including ending:
I enjoyed reading Walter's evolution from hopeless drunk to family leader.
Best scene in story:
My favorite scene is when Walter's mother talks to his wife about the new baby because although the book can get depressing, the mother offers some hope & light.
Opinion about the main character:
I disliked him from the beginning because he was so angry and ornery towards the women in the book. He was a bad example for his son at first.
The review of this Book prepared by Shauntrice Martin