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touchegiantsquid's review against another edition
emotional
funny
inspiring
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
5.0
Being a suburban Angelino, it was fun recognizing the LA landmarks. Being Nikkei, it was surprising how many details of the southern California Japanese American community I recognized, despite not feeling very connected to it myself. Being hapa (they use a different term in the book), it resonated deeply for me. I could not imagine a YA book that could have characters that experience so much of what I have lived, when I was a young reader. This book is a criticism of the Nikkei community and a love letter to it, all wrapped in a light romance and mystery. I highly recommend.
Content Warnings
Minor: Abandonment, Bullying, Panic attacks/disorders, Racism, Sexual content, Emotional abuse, and Cursing
katiemack's review
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-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
4.0
I'm always glad to read a book that will resonate with my (potential) future multiracial children. Through protagonist Rika, Kuhn explores themes of identity, loss, and emotional control in this cute (but not sugary-sweet) YA novel. It was refreshing to read Rika's struggle with letting go and feeling her own emotions; I haven't seen that explored so fully in a YA novel, and I really identified with that plot point. Though there were some awful side characters in Little Tokyo, it was heartwarming to read about the communal feel of the area and the way the community rallied toward the end.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Abandonment, Panic attacks/disorders, Misogyny, Grief, and Emotional abuse
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