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123liz123's review
challenging
emotional
hopeful
sad
slow-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
2.5
crocheteer34's review
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-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
3.0
bookdragon217's review
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-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
4.25
"Many times we don't need something until we lack it."
Neither Out Far Nor in Deep by Leah T. Williams was the heartwarming #ReadCaribbean read I needed to kick off this month. It's a story that is familiar in that it's about a teenager getting into trouble, who gets sent to St. Kitts to stay with his grandfather and get his act together. The opening scenes leap right into action and set the stage for what is to come.
Williams does a fantastic job of capturing today's teenager in Kadeem, who is so far removed from the Caribbean life. I found myself cracking up at the things that would fly out of Kadeem's mouth. Watching him adjust to Caribbean life felt realistic and the story had a very modern feel.
I loved the depiction of life in St. Kitts from the language to the food and other aspects of culture. The relationship that developed between Kadeem and his grandfather won me over. I loved their back and forth banter and how Granddad taught him lessons through old sayings typical to St. Kitts. Their organic evolution was so beautiful to experience.
Even though the story was light hearted Williams managed to cover some great themes such as culture clash, challenges of adolescence, coming of age, the disconnect with traditional healthcare systems, found family, positive male Black role models, and the importance of grandparents for social support. It also touched on the lack of resources for Black males deemed to be "troubled" in the school system. It was also refreshing to see a friendship where one isn't afraid to challenge their friend to do better and to recognize their privilege. This one would be a great addition to school libraries and for those wanting an escape to the Caribbean that will feel like home.
Neither Out Far Nor in Deep by Leah T. Williams was the heartwarming #ReadCaribbean read I needed to kick off this month. It's a story that is familiar in that it's about a teenager getting into trouble, who gets sent to St. Kitts to stay with his grandfather and get his act together. The opening scenes leap right into action and set the stage for what is to come.
Williams does a fantastic job of capturing today's teenager in Kadeem, who is so far removed from the Caribbean life. I found myself cracking up at the things that would fly out of Kadeem's mouth. Watching him adjust to Caribbean life felt realistic and the story had a very modern feel.
I loved the depiction of life in St. Kitts from the language to the food and other aspects of culture. The relationship that developed between Kadeem and his grandfather won me over. I loved their back and forth banter and how Granddad taught him lessons through old sayings typical to St. Kitts. Their organic evolution was so beautiful to experience.
Even though the story was light hearted Williams managed to cover some great themes such as culture clash, challenges of adolescence, coming of age, the disconnect with traditional healthcare systems, found family, positive male Black role models, and the importance of grandparents for social support. It also touched on the lack of resources for Black males deemed to be "troubled" in the school system. It was also refreshing to see a friendship where one isn't afraid to challenge their friend to do better and to recognize their privilege. This one would be a great addition to school libraries and for those wanting an escape to the Caribbean that will feel like home.
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