Reviews

Rain Is Not My Indian Name by Cynthia Leitich Smith

courtofsmutandstuff's review against another edition

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  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot

5.0

A quick straightforward read. I think it reads more middle grade than YA, and I think is better for younger readers (it's more plot driven than character driven). I would have liked more interiority and depth in some places (especially around her feelings on Galen's death and her friendship breakup with Queenie), but the book has a tight plot (and still does have interiority, especially around her familial relationships). I preferred Hearts Unbroken by this author. 

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thelifeoflynn's review against another edition

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4.0

  • What a powerful short story about dealing with grief and embracing your roots!
  • Definitely recommend this, both for the age group it is targeted to (middle grade) as for (young) adults too. It’s insightful.

readingwithkaitlyn's review

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

3.0


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carolineinthelibrary's review against another edition

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4.0

This was a short but powerful book about the courage to grieve and continue on after a hard loss, but also about self discovery and embracing who you are. There’s some dated attitudes but unfortunately those still exist so I don’t think it makes the book any less good.

esmewasreading's review against another edition

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3.5

 A sweet, and short contemporary exploring grief after Rain's best friend tragically dies.

She tries to get accept her friends death while trying to learn more of her Native American heritage.

a very quick and easy read! 

rikkir77's review against another edition

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medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.0

andeez's review against another edition

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3.0

Rain doesn't want to go to Indian camp. Her best friend is dead. Nothing matters.

But Rain does agree to take photos for a news story at Indian camp. And she learns more about herself, her friends, and her family.

Recommend for grades 8 and up.

bsmorris's review against another edition

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3.0

Short but powerful, this novel explores grief and coming of age in a small town. Despite the book being so short, the characters and storyline feel complex and real. I really enjoy Smith's style.

kikiwi's review against another edition

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lighthearted reflective sad

nicolefrailedits's review

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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

4.0


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