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4.37 AVERAGE
4.37 AVERAGE
The author tackles big issues (self image, race, friendship, alcoholism) in a way that is accessible to young readers. Also, I love that this author is from Michigan, and the story is set there!
I really enjoyed the main character, her realistic adolescent experiences, and the arc her storyline took. Many of the characters in this book offer opportunities to talk with readers about a range of experiences and challenges.
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This book may be written for younger readers, but it is not an easy read. I learned and felt so much while reading about Genesis and her family. The internalized family trauma and self-hatred depicted in this story HURTS. But it’s a productive hurt - one that caused me to ask questions, dig deeply, and learn about new perspectives. I would have liked an ending tied up with a nice little bow, but that’s not what this story is. It’s messy and hard, and more than once I thought about taking a break because I was so frustrated and/or angry about what our main character went through, both as a result of the people around her and as a result of her own poor choices.
This sounds like a downer, but I really did enjoy this book! This is a middle grade book that I’d recommend to any age reader. I keep thinking about Genesis as if she’s a real person, because the writing truly brings her to life. I’m so thankful to have read this book!
This sounds like a downer, but I really did enjoy this book! This is a middle grade book that I’d recommend to any age reader. I keep thinking about Genesis as if she’s a real person, because the writing truly brings her to life. I’m so thankful to have read this book!
This was a really good book. It kept me interested the whole time. I loved that Genesis found great friends who accept her for who she is. I'm glad that Genesis found peace and healing through music. I'm glad she found the courage to share her frustrations about her parents with them. I thought it was a good portrayal of the challenges a person can face in a real way. It wasn't over the top drama, but normal drama that so many can relate to.
Edit to add: another reviewer said Genesis' parents are ones you love and hate. I felt like that was so true. Her mom is trying so hard but continues to trust her struggling husband. Her dad has had some major trauma in the loss of his brother and how his mom treats him after that. It's heartbreaking and helped me give him compassion.
Edit to add: another reviewer said Genesis' parents are ones you love and hate. I felt like that was so true. Her mom is trying so hard but continues to trust her struggling husband. Her dad has had some major trauma in the loss of his brother and how his mom treats him after that. It's heartbreaking and helped me give him compassion.
Brilliant and real. Such a powerful story. I can't put into more words how much I loved this book.
challenging
emotional
hopeful
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This is really special! The focus on colorism takes an otherwise pretty typical new-kid-in-school plot to a whole other level. I was also really moved by Genesis's feelings about her parents' marriage. She know it's bad and she knows how many chances her father has blown, but she can't quite find it in herself to want them to split up--that rang very true.
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This book stabbed me in the gut as Genesis reflects on all the reasons she hates herself and wants to change. It was a deep look at internalized racism from a child’s perspective that is extremely relatable to anyone.