2025 Book Note 5: 145th Street by Walter Dean Myers

By Dr. Lois Jeremy-Greene 5/30/2025

I’ve always loved short stories. There’s a certain magic in how they quickly immerse you in varied characters, settings, and emotions. With each story, you're transported into a new world—and in 145th Street, Walter Dean Myers masterfully brings Harlem, New York City, to life.

While it’s a world away from Miguel Street in Trinidad, where I’ve journeyed through other familiar stories, 145th Street offers a powerful glimpse into American urban life. Myers captures the soul of the neighborhood with authenticity, painting vivid portraits of its people and their lives. From police brutality to mental illness, from violence to moments of joy and love, he explores the complexities of community and culture with remarkable depth.

The book opens with the unforgettable Big Joe, a man who wanted his flowers while he was still alive, so he planned his own funeral. That story alone sets the tone: raw, real, and laced with humor and heart. Through characters like Peaches, Angela, Monkeyman, Benny, and Kitty, I felt like I was walking down 145th Street myself, witnessing the ordinary and extraordinary lives that unfold there.

Of all the stories, my favorite was the one about Kitty and Mack, a tender, genuine portrayal of teenage love, dedication, and resilience. Their story lingered with me long after I turned the last page.

I thoroughly enjoyed this collection and look forward to reading more of Walter Dean Myers’ work. He doesn’t just tell stories, he gives voice to a community, reminding us that, no matter where we come from, everyone has a story worth telling.