Reviews

The Girl, the Ring, and the Baseball Bat by Camille Gomera-Tavarez

therearenobadbooks's review

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medium-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

4.0

I like that there are three narrators. My favorite character is Rosie, but then it's Zeke, and then Caro, meaning they all have their moments, even their mom. She has a great grumpy personality) Also, Yolanda is awesome.

Rosie is an exceptional student but is treated unfairly by the patriarchal authorities of the school who acting in spite can ruin her future with a simple order. I am glad they got some justice on this front. Her talisman is a jacket that makes people do what she says, but it also makes her feel with more intensity, including rage. These talismans in a way help the three teens face the turbulence and injustices of coming of age and growing up but sometimes they need to navigate the consequences. 

The book gets even better around the 60% mark and it has a lot of relatable family scenes, school life moments that make me rethink that I missed some experiences in my school life, and relationship trauma (from boyfriends to parents) that we understand well. 

The author has a good idea of how teens struggle with the uncertainty of their future, and life, and how they communicate. Although some readers may think characters curse a lot it is a great representation (and very genuine) to teens's reality. 

I am glad the author points out that being angry is OK because, when used properly it can bring good change.
Thank you Netgalley and publisher for the e-arc.

stylesplenty's review

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4.0

Thank you to NetGalley and Levine Querido for the ARC.
This is my first book by Camile Gomera-Tavarez and I need to read her other book(s).
This was great story telling with magical twist and the characters are unforgettable.
This is a must read.

bookishmillennial's review

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emotional funny mysterious reflective fast-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? It's complicated
 This is probably the most unique story I have read this year! I really enjoyed this teenage magical realism story about Caro, Rosie and Zeke (who we receive rotating first-person POV). I felt equally invested in all of the characters' chapters, and I only wish the book was a bit longer! 

This is my first read of Camille Gomera-Tavarez and it will not be my last! 

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juliemajercak's review

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funny inspiring

5.0

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