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gabbyjc's review
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.25
This book is absolutely amazing. Samira Ahmed’s writing is absolutely beautiful and she was able to perfectly encapsulate the feelings I have as a black girl living in America and the fear and terror that comes with being a minority here. She made me feel things, anger, saddened, relief. But, she also reminded me of the privilege I have of being alive today, because many people like myself weren’t granted that. It reminded me of my purpose and need in life to stand up and speak out for others. I would 10/10 recommend this to any body who wants to learn more about the effects of racism on BIPOC or who just wants a good murder mystery to read.
My main critic is that the story was a bit predictable. Early on, I could see what the twist would be and once I got confirmation, it was kind of hard to get through. But the writing is impeccable.
My main critic is that the story was a bit predictable. Early on, I could see what the twist would be and once I got confirmation, it was kind of hard to get through. But the writing is impeccable.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Antisemitism, Grief, Hate crime, Kidnapping, Misogyny, Murder, Racism, Religious bigotry, and Xenophobia
Minor: Blood, Police brutality, and Toxic relationship
corriejn's review against another edition
dark
emotional
informative
inspiring
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.75
YA novel about a teen in Chicago dealing with racist and Islamophobic incidents in her community. A bit true crime/mystery, a bit of teen romance, peer drama, struggles at school, etc., and lots of contextualizing situations within both real and fictionalized events in the rise of open right wing and xenophobic sentiments in the U.S. and social media. Some points made a bit "on the nose" but didn't feel too out of place for the genre.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Religious bigotry, Hate crime, Islamophobia, Murder, Toxic friendship, Classism, Xenophobia, Racism, Toxic relationship, Grief, and Racial slurs
Moderate: Stalking, Police brutality, Violence, and Gaslighting
Minor: Injury/Injury detail, Antisemitism, and Drug use
shockyreads's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
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? No
5.0
This book is a must read.
Powerful. Emotional. Raw. This book tore my heart out, in the best way. It was like a kick in the gut. But one I think every white person needs. A heart-wrenching and heavy story on the state of our world. Of bigotry. Of injustice. Of blind hate. But also, of friendship, love, family, faith, and a dash of hope. Samira Ahmed, you are an incredible story teller. Thank you for sharing Jawads story. Thank you for sharing the truth of discrimination in our country. I think this story is going to stay with me for a long time.
Powerful. Emotional. Raw. This book tore my heart out, in the best way. It was like a kick in the gut. But one I think every white person needs. A heart-wrenching and heavy story on the state of our world. Of bigotry. Of injustice. Of blind hate. But also, of friendship, love, family, faith, and a dash of hope. Samira Ahmed, you are an incredible story teller. Thank you for sharing Jawads story. Thank you for sharing the truth of discrimination in our country. I think this story is going to stay with me for a long time.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Islamophobia and Racism
Moderate: Violence, Religious bigotry, Hate crime, Police brutality, Racial slurs, Xenophobia, and Murder
Minor: Sexism
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