45 pages • 1 hour read
SapphirePush
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1996A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Push by Sapphire follows Precious, a 16-year-old Black girl in 1987 Harlem who faces immense hardship and abuse, including illiteracy, rape, incest, pregnancy, and HIV. Despite these challenges, Precious finds hope and self-worth through an alternative education program where, supported by caring individuals, she learns to read, write, and rebuild her life.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Push by Sapphire has been praised for its raw and powerful portrayal of an abused teenager's quest for self-discovery and empowerment. Critics commend its emotional intensity and authentic voice. However, some note that its graphic content and starkly bleak outlook may be distressing for some readers. A compelling, though difficult, read that sparks deep reflection.
Who Should Read Push?
A reader who would enjoy Push by Sapphire is one drawn to gritty, emotional narratives of resilience and survival. This reader appreciates unflinching portrayals of trauma and redemption, similar to the themes in The Color Purple by Alice Walker and Bastard Out of Carolina by Dorothy Allison.