Forged by Fire

by Sharon M. Draper

Book Overview

The flame of love burns bright in the second book of Sharon M. Draper's award-winning Hazelwood High trilogy.

When Gerald was a child he was fascinated by fire. But fire is dangerous and powerful, and tragedy strikes. His substance-addicted mother is taken from him. Then he loses the loving generosity of a favorite aunt, and a brutal stepfather with a flaming temper and an evil secret makes his life miserable. The one bright light in...

• Format: Mass Market Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0689818513
• ISBN13: 9780689818516
• Release Date: January 1998
• Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers
• Length: 160 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 4.3" x 7.1"
• Age Range: 8 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 3 to 7

Customer Reviews

I enjoyed the book.

Forged by Fire is a great book for teens, but I would not let readers like 12 and younger read the novel. In the novel there’s violence, child abuse, and very harsh things for younger readers. This novel helps understand how some people may be living in real life or what it feels like. This book takes us on an adventure with Gerald on his life story and how tough he is to have overcome all these horrible things. Even though people say to much violence or to many inappropriate things. It still teaches us how some lives are harder than others, and shows how people have to live through such hard ways, but I would recommend this book to everyone with interest.

I would recommend Forged by Fire. It was a incredible novel. it contains twists and turns from his abusive/traumatizing childhood to his teen years to death. Gerald, growing up to his teen year has awful struggles but always stays true and engaged to what he enjoys sports, friends, and family. He experiences horrific times and excruciating pain but he still remains loving. Even though the novel isn’t for everyone it may still help others. Hope you love it(:

"Forged by Fire" will take you on a huge roller coaster of emotions.

I would most likely recommend "Forged by Fire." Mainly because it took me on a HUGE roller coaster of emotions. For instance the main character Gerald, went on a humongous roller coaster of emotions/feelings like child abuse, neglect, and sadness. I really liked how Gerald, after all the craziness he goes through he didn’t stop going on with his life. You should definitely read "Forged by Fire" because if you have been looking for a very suspenseful story than look no further "Forged by Fire" is definitely for you. Even though this novel is very heavy, and intense to some people because of child abuse, neglect, and sadness, I encourage if you are a person like such to read it anyways because it just might possibly help you cope with these problems. So buy your copy now trust me you won’t regret it.

you should definitely read this book.

I would recommend Forged By Fire . Even when it had its ups and downs, it was a really good book. Gerald will be your main character, but he is not always your blissful character like other books. Gerald is an amazing brother, student, and athlete. At the same time as all of this he experience child abuse, loss, and love. You should read this book because it is so wonderful. Even though this book is intense because of Gerald’s background, it just might help someone. I hope you admire this novel as much as I did.

real good novel

I would suggest you read this novel!! It is a wonderful novel! This novel really puts you on the edge of your seat with all of these plot twist and events. Also I really think that this novel will give you different views of what could happen in a person's life that people looking from the outside would not even know. I believe with all the child abuse, death, drug use this is a jaw dropping story. Even though Gerald had a really harsh life, this can help other people in his terrifying situation survive through the same thing. I really think this novel will make you think about what goes on in another person's life.

It was decent.

Forged By Fire is a decent novel. It has many impacting moments and controversial topics. What I respected most about the novel is how the author, Sharon M. Draper is not reluctant to use many controversial topics such as child abuse, death, drugs/narcotics, and disasters. Gerald was abused and neglected most of his life. Due to this abuse and neglect he has endured, it has gave him the discipline necessary to survive on his own. I recommend this novel to others because it is alluring and entertaining to read. Even though some people may be discouraged because of the controversial topics, it’s one worth reading and I advocate you to buy this novel.

it was an amazing book I could relate

I definitely would recommend Forged by Fire. I thought this book was interesting and outgoing. This book will make you gasp for air , Gerald is a loveable boy who is swallowed in fear. He’s the main character. The book is an emotional breakdown and you will be too. You might be going through some of the most terrifying backgrounds like, Gerald and well me, but if he can be a strong and hard working student then you can to we can. You should read this book because it’s relatable and it may help others like with similar and mysterious situations. Even though this is a harshful and blackening book, that is apart of Geralds abusive life it will be helpful to others in ways. Now kids just trust me it will help you if you are in some of these trembling situations. you don’t have to be frightened your strong and if you are in these issues then you should read till the end like me it helped me it should help you .

I would not recommend Forged by Fire. I didn't care for it because there was evidence that is nasty and wrong. Gerald was on emotional roller coaster with tones of twist about child abuse. Even though some people may say Gerald’s life could support people that are going through the same thing, you should not read this book it is heavy. In conclusion this book is bad it is depressing and hard i would not buy this book. I hope you save your money don't buy it.

this is not a great book

I would not recommend this novel Forged By Fire. It was a realistic book which was too much for me. This book brings horrible thoughts and afawl memories to me. If you're anything like me/us (the abused) who been through this before, you would feel somewhat like me. You should not read it because it touches on personal levels in occasions. But it shows better ways to solve these issues. It could help people cope with this issue that consist in real life. This book contains an abusive story. This book can damage a person on how there outlook on how they view it. The backgrounds of these characters can make someone feel rage and depression. This seems to be a story of recovery and violent behavior of abusive adults. This shows that when someone is in a horrible story that there's a better side to it.

This novel was okay

I would Definitely would Recommend Forged by Fire! It was one of the awesome novel i had ever read in a long time. It includes Actions,Child Abuse,Deaths and a lot of Emotions shown after some one Special had Died.Gerald,the Main Character,that takes us on a Emotional Roller Coaster with twists and turns throughout the whole novel. I loved Gerald because through all these hard struggles he stayed strong throughout the whole novel.you should read this novel because it will show a lots of thoughts and help others that has Experience these things that Happen to Gerald. Even though this novel is to heavy and intense because of Geralds Abused background,it may help other see his side of his point view. You should read this novel because it help you understand whats going on in Life.

The novel was okay

I would recommend Forged by Fire. The book wasn't a terrible book. Gerald is one of the characters, and he went through an emotional roller coaster throughout the text.In the end, Gerald stays strong unlike many teenagers and he has never gave up. Gerald goes through a ton like child abuse, loss of others and he doesn't get that much affection. You should consider reading this novel I think you will enjoy it, because it will change your point of view and it should make you think about the next time you judge people. Even though this novel is really intense, rigid and emotional because Gerald’s insulting history, it could help others with how they feel. I hope you enjoy this novel as much as I did!

it was good novel

I would recommend forged by fire it was a good novel that got me excited.Geraid,the character takes you on a emotional roller coaster with twist and turns through though Child abuse loss and love even with the awful times.you should read this because it has awful Struggles and joyful parts.even though this novel can be a lot to take in it can make people feel joy and anger.i this makes you interested in the novel.

Forged by Fire is one of the best books ever!

I definitely recommend Forged By Fire. It was a very vigorous novel that is very engaging and involves real life situations. It is one of the incomparable novels i’ve ever scrutinized. The main character Gerald takes you on a rollercoaster of sentimentality and buoyant feelings. You need to peruse this novel. It is really superior and educate you about real life situations. Some people say the book is to much for children but my opinion i think children 12 and up should read this because they can relate or learn what to do in that situation. I hope you have similar thoughts about the novel like i do.

This novel was okay

I would definitely would recommend this book Forged By Fire. “If your under depression don’t attempt to read this novel”. It was not the best at first, but we all have our own choices. The end of the book was my favorite. It was a really emotional novel throughout the whole thing. Gerald started young but then at the end he was 17 he had a younger sister Angel. Gerald love basketball his friends like Rob Andy Bj. he also had bad things happen it was like a roller coaster. He went through abuse and loss of loved ones. I do enjoy this book but there is somethings i distaste even though this book is to heavy. And intense because of Gerald abusive background it may help others see how he copes. Hope you enjoy the novel is incredible

Loved It.

I would absolutely recommend Forged by Fire to adolescents. I had flames of anger and a roller coaster of emotions while reading this narrative. This cliffhanger of a novel is filled with several tears and heart-wrenching anguish. It is about a young mature boy who grows up in a childhood brimming with child abuse and infused with a stepfather that has a destructive temper about everything. From an unseen relationship he learns to stand up for himself and others. But just because some people describe this book as too intense for children, doesn't mean you can’t use it to help people process hardships of life. Hope you will read and admire this novel AND BUY IT NOW!

love it

I would recommend this book to 13 years and older because they might get a better understand of all the violence. This book is amazing because they would better understand it. This book is wonderful because all the plot twist. I enjoyed this book because it starts off with all the suspense, And one more it talks about helping with all types of abuse at home. I love the drama and sports, but for the people who give it a one star I understand if it is a little too much for you. Still I would recommend this book it is just so amazing but why am I telling you that you should see for yourself.

Lit And Fire .-.

I would give it 5 stars because you can relate to a depressing household with fights and its an awesome novel filled with surprises and twist in it. As well how it can make you start thinking and see how other peoples life can be. You can agree with what's in the novel and See what's going to happen. They make it seem real and seem serious. The novel shows how Life changing it can be, and to show people that there not the only ones going through pain. People might reflect and relate to the abuse and even have thoughts of suicide. After this novel they might look back on themselves and think first before doing something, Having hopefully a Positive Character and to believe in themselves and try to accomplish in life. I think 13+ should read it cause they would understand and relate maybe and agree that the book is Fire.

I would recommend the book!!!!

I would absolutely recommend this book! This book is great for thirteen and older. It has so many plot twist in this book,it has made a great inspiration.He goes through up and down but gerald finds out what happens,it wasn’t the best book ever but it is a okay book maybe other kids might like it more then i did.One reason i give it a 3 star because it tell people should bully kids at school because they might not have a good life.

I wouldn't recommend this book

I wouldn't recommend buying this book.This book has abundance of drama and plot twist. It takes up to much time and to many boring chapters. The sports are boring because they go through too much drama with characters who played on the team. Even though some people enjoy jaralds life and her struggles. But in the end i wouldn't recommend buying this book.

I recommend

I would recommend this book to people 13 and up. there is child abuse, So older people would apprehend what is happening. I really liked the the suspense of not knowing what happened to gerald next even though some people may not like this book because of the abuse it help create suspense in the stray and makes it more realistic. Don’t read this book unless your mature enough.

Forged by fire is the best novel in the world!!!!!!!

I would absolutely buy this novel!! It is a wonderful life changing novel! This novel really puts you on the very edge of your seat with all of these plot twist and big events. Also I really think that this novel will give you different views of what could happen in some teenagers lives that you would not even want to think about. I positively believe with all the child abuse, death, drug use this is a jaw dropping story. Even though Gerald had a really harsh life, this can help other people in his terrifying situation survive through the same thing. I really think this marvelous novel will leave you with a breathtaking mind set.

I have a passionite recomendation for this book

I would recommend this to mature teens who love suspenseful and meaningful books. This book is suspenseful, traumatic and all around amazing.The book is deep in meaning even down the very last detail, yes, there are very emotional parts but it’s also very educational and helpful.The main character Gerald is amazing and how he struggles to have to grow up so fast to take care of his loved ones.Not only do we see the battling emotional side of his life side we see Gerald go through normal relatable teenage situations and try to keep him and his sisters life normal as he enjoys basketball and she enjoys dance.Even the simple side characters have and essential impact on the story.The twist and turns are confusing yet they catch you and make you keep reading till you reach the very end.Yet child abuse and drugs do take place throughout this book it is and beloved story to read, and I would recommend for some emotional guide and realization.

This book was lit LITTERLEY

I would absolutely avocate this fabulous book! This book is great for thirteen and older.It has so many plot twists in this spendius book,It has made a great inspiration.Gerald was challenged by rough times that I did not expect.Gerald finds a way to see the positive in life.Although the book is not for all ages.People may say it's despiriting,It tells an amazing story about an amazing boy named gerald,truly inspiring and an amazing super jock.Making the poor to better in life trying to make a marvelous impression.Gerald sticking up to his step father so he does not hurt his sister Angel. Even though Gerald's life is depressing for some readers.People can actually receive some positive lessons.Be beholden for what you have,I hope you love this book as much as I did.

it's was a great book

I would recommend this book, “Forged by Fire’’. It’s a wonderful novel,if you can understand abuse and love. It helps to understand a lot of things in life. And what most people experience abuse daily. The main character in the book, still comes across a way to take care of his little sister at the end of the day,with him going to school,basketball practice and cooking for them. It’s really difficult for both of them because they really don’t have any happiness in their life. They both have challenges to conquer in life, but they get through it together. Even though it’s to difficult for some people because of what happens. It’s still a excellent novel , because it could help someone that has the same experience. It shows that even with the abuse you can still get through it and be cheerful.

Forged by Fire by Conner Witsken

Forged by Fire by Sharon Draper shows the story of a kid that has to deal with his problems and the problems of people around him. It is about a kid standing up to his abusive stepfather and protecting his family from his abusive stepfather. When Gerald's mom (Monique) gets sent to prison for drug abuse, Gerald goes to live with his Aunt Queen in Cincinnati. Suddenly, Aunt Queen dies and Gerald has to go live with Monique since she was released from prison. He is now living with his Mom, His sister (Angel), which he didn't even know he had, and his stepfather (Jordan). Gerald finds out that Jordan is an alcoholic. Every time Jordan got drunk, he would abuse Angel, Gerald, and Monique. Gerald just knew he had to do something about it. Therefore, one day he got the police to arrest Jordan because he was molesting Angel. They were having a good life without Jordan. When Jordan got out of prison he was acting extremely nice, but Gerald knew something was going to happen. The problem is going to be fixed for the last time. I recommend this book to kids between the ages of 10-15. It shows hatred, sadness, and emotion. The emotion in this book is just incredible. For anyone who likes adventure and "edge of the seat" books, you will love this book. In addition, you will like it if you have already read one of the "Hazelwood High Series" and liked it.

Foged By Fire

Forged By Fires was my first time reading a book by Sharon M. Draper and it definitely made a good impression. It starts at an apartment where 3-year-old Gerald (who was abused by his mother) was playing with a lighter for entertainment. Even with that little flicker of fire, it resolves into a smoke filled room with firefighters coming to save him. Since his mother was sent to prison he is sent to his aunts where he experiences joy and sorrow. When his aunt dies he is moved back to his mother where he finds Angel, his loving half sister and Jordan Sparks, his cruel stepfather where he has to go against him once and for all. I personally think the purpose of the book was to explain abuse and how children can feel and react to it.

"Forged By Fire"

Gerald was fasinated by fire when he was little. Because of his addiction to fire tragdey strikes. While his substance-addicted mother left to see "Mr. Leroy" Gerald is left alone in his small apartment. Since Gerald is only three he starts playing with the lighter. The apartment is set burning and Gerald is saved by a teenage boy from the next door. Gerald's mother is sent to jail and Gerald's aunt Queen takes custody of him. Aunt Queen dies and Gerald is forced to live with his mother,(whom just got out of jail), brutel step-father Jordan Sparks and his new sister Angel. Angel gets abused and touched by her father and Gerald's step-father, Jordan Sparks. Gerald is determined to stop this nonsense. He goes to a father on his basketball team for help. They go to court and Jordan is sentenced to jail time. Once Jordan gets out Gerald is afraid to let his little sister, the light of his life, in Jordan's hands. Has Jordan really changed? Read "Forged By Fire" By: Sharon Draper to find out.

Really interesting book!

This book is about Gerald, at 3 yrs old, was abused himself by his mother. His mother will hit him and leave him in his diapers all day if he poops in them, to teach him a lesson. His mother was on drugs and often left him in the apartment alone. Well, one day, his mother left to buy some drugs from Leroy, some man that smell sweet. And Gerald decide to play with his GI Joe and a lighter. Suddenly, the apartment is on fire. He goes and hide behind the couch. The neighbor decide to check up on him, if it wasn't for the neighbor, Gerald would of die from smoke inhallation.His mother goes to prison for child endangerment. And also she goes to drug rehab. Aunt Queen comes to the rescue and Gerald went to live with her for six years. Then his world comes crashing down on his ninth birthday. Aunt Queen dies and he have go to live with his mother. His mother is married to Jordan, who claim to be Angel's father, but isn't. Jordan is violent and will hit Gerald, his mother, and his sister, Angel, whenever he gets drunk. Also, Jordan will sexually molest Angel, which disgusts me. When Gerald went to move in with his mother, he couldn't bring himself to call her mama anymore, so he call her by her first name, Monique.Well, from the day Gerald moves in, he vows to protect his sister. His sister like to dance like any typical 7-yr-old. Well, Gerald turns in Jordan for sexually abuse, and he finally gets out of prison when Gerald is 17 and Angel is 13. Ok, when Gerald is 17, his best friend, Robert Washington, dies in a car crash because Andy was driving drunk and crash into a wall.This, indeed, is a real sad book that I read and I couldn't put it down. I have to order "Tears of a Tiger" and "Dawn by Darkness" one of these days. I read this book back when I was in the 10th grade. This book will made you angry against abuse of kids, and make you want to do something..

My review on Forged By Fire

This book is about a boy named Gerald who is abused.The book starts off by telling about his mother abusing him when he was three years old.she would always hit him and leave him at home by himself. Then he started living with his Aunt Queen until he was about nine years old. When his aunt died he went back to live with his mom and step-father,Jordan.He was really abusive too, he would hit Gerald and his mom then sexually harass his younger sister,Angel. Gerald could never forgive his mom and didn't call her mama anymore. he called her by her first name, Monique. Once Gerald got older he had become stronger and didn't fear Jordan anymore. He had to be very strong because of all the pain he went through and the bad memories he had. The only part that I didn't like about the book is that it told about Rob's death and repeated some of the things in Tears of a tiger. I didn't tell about how hard it was for Andy and how he killed himself. I recommend this book for people of all ages because it is a book with strong feelings in it and it tells alot about being abused.