Reviews

Genesis Begins Again by Alicia D. Williams

tuesdaymendoza's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional informative sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Fantastic novel. Reminiscent of The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison. 4.5 is my personal opinion, but I think this objectively is 5.

janeyolivia's review against another edition

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emotional informative reflective sad
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Such a good middle grade novel! Some parts just felt a little slow to me but would highly recommend.

loriereeves's review against another edition

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emotional reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

lissystrata's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful inspiring sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

debbiebarr's review against another edition

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5.0

I've checked this book out from the library at least three times, and I'm so glad I finally read it this time around.

natashaniezgoda's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

rakoerose's review against another edition

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5.0

This book took my breath away on more than one occasion. Genesis is one of the strongest protagonists I think I’ve ever read about.

Mamas probably don’t want their kids to see them lose it. But I’m not about to leave her alone, either.

For young teens, self-loathing is often something they experience. For Genesis, it also stems from internalized racism and verbal abuse from her father. Her story is a heartbreaking one and also incredibly important. I hope there are young girls who see a girl who looks like them on the cover and find comfort that they are not alone. Own-voices novels continue to educate me and make it clear just how valued they should be in publishing.

I liked how Genesis was allowed to make mistakes, take responsibility for them, and begin again. That’s so much more valuable than having a protagonist who succeeds too easily. Humans make mistakes. Genesis made some big ones and learned from them. Such great messages for young ones to read!

I definitely want to see this included in more teacher’s plans. I want more kids to have access to narratives they’ll see themselves in. I can’t recommend this enough, as a book that lays harsh truths that fit the age range while also giving sweet, tender moments that showcase reality is not always good or bad.

mlwilson1021's review against another edition

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5.0

There is so much to love about Genesis Begins Again. The character development is excellent. I wanted to reach through the pages and hug Genesis so many times. This is such a great middle grade book to press into the hands of any student. I think it would make an excellent book club pick too. As a middle school teacher-librarian, I think this book is pure gold, and I’m eager to read more from teacher-writer Alicia D Williams.

udflyer's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Frustrating read, but good message at the end. Be happy with yourself

c_sandman's review against another edition

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4.0

Wow! A powerful middle-grade novel that deals with some heavy topics. Beautiful and meaningful story about the struggles of growing up and one’s identity.