Take a photo of a barcode or cover
3.94 AVERAGE
3.94 AVERAGE
A gritty realitic YA fiction, my heart broke for Fabiola as she struggled to navigate a massive amount of change and uncertainty at the same time. She comes to the US, gets to know her very opinionated three cousins, her strict and ailing aunt, and misses her mother all the time, like a missing limb. Because she has no choice, she adapts quickly, almost losing herself in her new life. Her faith and her connection to her mother, with her determination to reunite with her, is what keeps her true to herself.
I took a star off because of how the ending played out.
I took a star off because of how the ending played out.
challenging
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Cursing, Death, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Racial slurs, Racism, Toxic relationship, Violence, Death of parent, Murder, Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Sexual content, Grief, Deportation
Minor: Drug use, Infidelity, Police brutality
Beautiful but sad… A true representation of immigration and race in the United States. I loved the characters and the imagery and learning about Haitian culture, even though I felt the story was a little slow in the middle. Though I believe it’s written as YA lit, it involves really heavy things, which could be challenging for young adult readers - challenging but important!
I was hoping to like this one a lot without the shoehorning in of an adaptation the way [b:Pride|35068632|Pride|Ibi Zoboi|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1568593808l/35068632._SY75_.jpg|56364079] was. It was better but Zoboi's writing just doesn't work for me.
Everyone should read this book. Opened my eyes to so much. Beautifully written. Hope this author writes more.
I never wanted to put this book down. I wanted to know more about Fabiola’s story and her cousins. The more I read, the more invested I became in all their lives.
I, too, fell in love with Kasim and the cuteness of their young love.
But I’m deeply saddened by this story—my heart breaks. Without giving too much away, I will say this; it’s essential to mind your own business and not take matters into your hands. To not be selfish and only think of yourself, To truly listen to those around you.
Fabiola became too bold, too quick, and she broke my heart.
I will forever remember this story and the tears I shed because of it.
I, too, fell in love with Kasim and the cuteness of their young love.
But I’m deeply saddened by this story—my heart breaks. Without giving too much away, I will say this; it’s essential to mind your own business and not take matters into your hands. To not be selfish and only think of yourself, To truly listen to those around you.
Fabiola became too bold, too quick, and she broke my heart.
I will forever remember this story and the tears I shed because of it.
This book unfolds so many truly deep layers of meaning. I love the deep revelations of Haitian pride that are unfolded. I love the love stories. I love the plot design and how it circles the lives of the main characters. I even appreciate Papa Legba and his role. It’s definitely a great teachable book to show others how a plot builds and what carries the actions of characters. Awesome work! ❤️❤️
A gorgeous, heartfelt read. Fabiola has such strength and confidence in herself as she navigates Detroit and America for the first time. Her faith and family bonds had me on her side from chapter 1. Loved this story!