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Reviews tagging 'Child death'
Four Eids and a Funeral by Adiba Jaigirdar, Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
17 reviews
dhatislandbookworm's review against another edition
emotional
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? No
3.0
This was another book that was just *fine* for me. I liked the characters, and I appreciated the story’s focus on culture, community, repairing friendships, and processing grief, however, there were a few issues I could not overlook.
My first gripe was that they never really addressed the racism and microaggressions that happen to Tiwa. This occurs multiple times, is called out once in private, and is never brought up again. There were so many opportunities to really delve into this.
Next was the root cause of Said and Tiwa’s rift. Bruh. When it was revealed, I rolled my eyes so hard because HUH. The reasoning didn’t make any sense and wasn’t justified at all (and, like Gigi pointed out, it was lowkey a crime?????).
But I think my main issue with this is that it is marketed as a love story when it didn‘t need to be. This could have been a story about healing a friendship and platonic love, and the content wouldn’t really have changed much. To be quite honest, I would’ve preferred that since the romance elements were very few and far between.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Grief
Minor: Death, Racism, and Child death
lettuce_read's review against another edition
4.25
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child death and Fire/Fire injury
coziebookclub's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
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
4.0
I’m a bit late but thank you to NetGalley and Faridah & Adiba for the opportunity to read this ARC that was published on June 4th! This was such a pleasure to read, and I appreciated learning and seeing representation of the Muslim community including different ethnic cultures and backgrounds. I found the characters lovable and especially the push and pull personalities between Said and Tiwa were a joy, especially while they were bantering.
The relationships between the characters and their families also made me happy and is one of my favorite things about this book. I enjoyed seeing how even after Tiwa and Said’s relationship at the start was distant and tense, it blossomed over time through their shared love for the Muslim community and family. I appreciate how sensitive topics were also discussed such as dealing with grief after death, discrimination, divorce. Every part and piece went into the development of the characters perfectly and built the story beautifully. Overall, this is a fun YA enemies-to-lovers whilst including realistic topics that Muslims and POC face often. Thank you again to NetGalley, Macmillan Publishing Group, and Faridah & Adiba for this charming book.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racism, Fire/Fire injury, and Islamophobia
Minor: Death and Child death
cloreadsbooks1364's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
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? No
5.0
I've read all of Adiba and Faridah's past novels, and every single one has been a 5⭐️ read. I'm delighted to say that this collaboration was no outlier.
Four Eids and a Funeral
By Adiba Jaigirdar and Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
5/5⭐️
This YA contemporary romance stars Said and Tuwa, former best friends who now hate each other. Reunited after the death of their friend, a local librarian, they work together to save the town's Islamic Centre after it goes up in flames.
My first impression of Said was that he's considerate. Of Tiwa, it was that she was probably going to be a very lovable character. As like most protagonists, they had challenges of their own to face alongside the main concern of saving the Centre. Tiwa struggled with losing the Centre that she spent so much time volunteering in, alongside missing her father abroad. There was also the never ending issue that a lot of people assumed she wasn't Muslim because she was Black and chose not to wear a hijab.
Said, who spent his time at a fancy boarding school, faced his parents' ambitious assumptions about his future, and how to tell them that what he wants (art) is not what they dream of for him (medicine).
The side characters Julian (Said's buddy from school) and Safiyah (Said's sister, and Tiwa's best friend) were both entertaining, especially watching Safiyah's relationship with Ishra (a very nice girl) develop.
The three past Eids were told in third person, while the chapters set in the present were told from first person, switching between Said and Tiwa. I found the story moved extremely smoothly, it didn't feel anywhere near as long as it was.
I absolutely devoured this funny, sweet, heartfelt book, and highly recommend it!
(The best character was obviously Laddoo, the affectionate sweet-loving ginger cat co-parented by Said and Tiwa 🐈)
Queer rep: Lesbian sc (Safiyah)
TWs: fire, racism, child death, grief, death, animal death 🐟, car accident
Four Eids and a Funeral
By Adiba Jaigirdar and Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
5/5⭐️
This YA contemporary romance stars Said and Tuwa, former best friends who now hate each other. Reunited after the death of their friend, a local librarian, they work together to save the town's Islamic Centre after it goes up in flames.
My first impression of Said was that he's considerate. Of Tiwa, it was that she was probably going to be a very lovable character. As like most protagonists, they had challenges of their own to face alongside the main concern of saving the Centre. Tiwa struggled with losing the Centre that she spent so much time volunteering in, alongside missing her father abroad. There was also the never ending issue that a lot of people assumed she wasn't Muslim because she was Black and chose not to wear a hijab.
Said, who spent his time at a fancy boarding school, faced his parents' ambitious assumptions about his future, and how to tell them that what he wants (art) is not what they dream of for him (medicine).
The side characters Julian (Said's buddy from school) and Safiyah (Said's sister, and Tiwa's best friend) were both entertaining, especially watching Safiyah's relationship with Ishra (a very nice girl) develop.
The three past Eids were told in third person, while the chapters set in the present were told from first person, switching between Said and Tiwa. I found the story moved extremely smoothly, it didn't feel anywhere near as long as it was.
I absolutely devoured this funny, sweet, heartfelt book, and highly recommend it!
(The best character was obviously Laddoo, the affectionate sweet-loving ginger cat co-parented by Said and Tiwa 🐈)
Queer rep: Lesbian sc (Safiyah)
TWs: fire, racism, child death, grief, death, animal death 🐟, car accident
Content Warnings
Graphic: Fire/Fire injury, Racism, and Death
Moderate: Child death
Minor: Animal death
coffeekitaab's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
sad
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? No
3.5
Ex-best friends, Tiwa and Said, must work together to save their Islamic Center from demolition, in this romantic story of rekindling and rebuilding by award-winning authors Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé & Adiba Jaigirdar! These days, Said Hossain spends most of his time away at boarding school. But when his favourite hometown librarian Ms. Barnes dies, he must return home to New Crosshaven for her funeral and for the summer. Too bad being home makes it a lot harder to avoid facing his ex-best friend, Tiwa Olatunji, or facing the daunting task of telling his Bangladeshi parents that he would rather be an artist than a doctor. Tiwa doesn’t understand what made Said start ignoring her, but it’s probably that fancy boarding school of his. Though he’s unexpectedly staying through the summer, she’s determined to take a page from him and pretend he doesn’t exist. Besides, she has more than enough going on, between grieving her broken family and helping her mother throw the upcoming Eid celebration at the Islamic Centre—a place that means so much to Tiwa. But when the Islamic Centre accidentally catches fire, it turns out the Mayor plans to demolish the centre entirely. Things are still tense between the ex-friends but Tiwa needs Said’s help if there’s any hope of changing the mayor’s mind, and Said needs a project to submit to art school (unbeknownst to anyone). Will all their efforts be enough to save the Islamic Centre, save Eid, and maybe save their relationship?
I adored the brown/Muslim representation in this book - within the cultural/religious references, dialogue and atmosphere and build up towards Eid celebrations and the union of the community/bringing people together to mark the occasion was wonderful - everything felt alive and really resonated with me personally as a reader. Within that, as a British woman of Indian descent, I definitely could also relate to Said's worries that his choice for pursuing/prioritising Art in his life over academics would disappoint his parents. Similarly, there were many microaggressions surrounding gender - the mention of (TW) Timi and the importance of a son over a daughter, by the aunt towards the end of the book was particularly well handled. I loved queer representation and Safiyah and Ishra's romance was cute - The banter and fun/friendships portrayed by Saf and Julian generally was fun and generally was a breath of fresh air - this was a sloooowburn in terms of Said and Tiwa's story with the strangers to friends to enemies to lovers trope, and brought together by a common objective- also miscommunication trope is BIG here so if you are not a fan, you might not enjoy this. Said is calm, controlled and generally composed all the time which is charming, he expresses more through his art/heart and it really packed an emotional punch in the gut with his quiet gestures and understanding. Put him before Tiwa who is a complete polar opposite and you have the perfect equation - Tiwa who is confident, opinionated, sarcastic and fearless - lots of oneliners/inner monologue from her had me chuckling away and I really did enjoy reading Tiwa's POV in the book, there are just so many shades to this character and so many mature emotions/situations she has to deal with - strong FMC for sure.
The plot was fast paced and the story was well developed - the gradual build up was pleasant, with some flashback scenes to show the before and after of how pivotal moments in the lives of the protagonists led them to where they are today - I was consumed by this book, there was not a single moment that dragged for me. The only points to note for me was - I wish more had been done to explore the acceptance of Tiwa as a Black Muslim (as opposed to Said who is a South Asian/Bangladeshi Muslim) I laud that this was touched on in the start of the book but it was not revisited again/with no conclusion which was a shame. Also, the situation with the letters felt abrupt - and could have been dealt with/edited into the story better. It wasn't as "shock/horror" as it was meant to be as a plot twist/and kind of felt anti climatic. Otherwise though, highly recommend this book and for the target audience it is perfect. Definitely was one of my favourite YA books this year - I have not read anything by these authors yet but I can tell that is soon to change!
Thank you Netgalley and Usborne Publishing for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest, unedited review!
I adored the brown/Muslim representation in this book - within the cultural/religious references, dialogue and atmosphere and build up towards Eid celebrations and the union of the community/bringing people together to mark the occasion was wonderful - everything felt alive and really resonated with me personally as a reader. Within that, as a British woman of Indian descent, I definitely could also relate to Said's worries that his choice for pursuing/prioritising Art in his life over academics would disappoint his parents. Similarly, there were many microaggressions surrounding gender - the mention of (TW) Timi and the importance of a son over a daughter, by the aunt towards the end of the book was particularly well handled. I loved queer representation and Safiyah and Ishra's romance was cute - The banter and fun/friendships portrayed by Saf and Julian generally was fun and generally was a breath of fresh air - this was a sloooowburn in terms of Said and Tiwa's story with the strangers to friends to enemies to lovers trope, and brought together by a common objective- also miscommunication trope is BIG here so if you are not a fan, you might not enjoy this. Said is calm, controlled and generally composed all the time which is charming, he expresses more through his art/heart and it really packed an emotional punch in the gut with his quiet gestures and understanding. Put him before Tiwa who is a complete polar opposite and you have the perfect equation - Tiwa who is confident, opinionated, sarcastic and fearless - lots of oneliners/inner monologue from her had me chuckling away and I really did enjoy reading Tiwa's POV in the book, there are just so many shades to this character and so many mature emotions/situations she has to deal with - strong FMC for sure.
The plot was fast paced and the story was well developed - the gradual build up was pleasant, with some flashback scenes to show the before and after of how pivotal moments in the lives of the protagonists led them to where they are today - I was consumed by this book, there was not a single moment that dragged for me. The only points to note for me was - I wish more had been done to explore the acceptance of Tiwa as a Black Muslim (as opposed to Said who is a South Asian/Bangladeshi Muslim) I laud that this was touched on in the start of the book but it was not revisited again/with no conclusion which was a shame. Also, the situation with the letters felt abrupt - and could have been dealt with/edited into the story better. It wasn't as "shock/horror" as it was meant to be as a plot twist/and kind of felt anti climatic. Otherwise though, highly recommend this book and for the target audience it is perfect. Definitely was one of my favourite YA books this year - I have not read anything by these authors yet but I can tell that is soon to change!
Thank you Netgalley and Usborne Publishing for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest, unedited review!
Content Warnings
Minor: Fire/Fire injury, Gaslighting, Child death, and Death
mishale1's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
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? No
4.0
*The cat does not die in this book. I wish someone had told me that. I saw content warnings saying an animal died and I worried about Laddoo so now you don’t have to worry*
Said and Tiwa used to be best friends. You might say they are enemies now but I’m not sure they see enough of each other to feel that way. It’s mostly awkward when they see each other after Said goes home from school for a funeral.
Their favorite librarian died. She meant a lot to both of them. She even entrusts her cat Laddoo to them when she passes.
Said abd Tiwa are also pulled together because their town’s Islamic center burnt down during Said’s visit and there are no plans to rebuild.
Despite the two barely spending any time together in years, they band together to save the Islamic center.
They’re both lovable characters. Thea’s back story has sadness in it but I seriously appreciate the fact that whilst this book dealt with several heavy, serious issues (including the death of a child) it was never overly sad.
Trust the cover. “This is a love story.”
Said and Tiwa used to be best friends. You might say they are enemies now but I’m not sure they see enough of each other to feel that way. It’s mostly awkward when they see each other after Said goes home from school for a funeral.
Their favorite librarian died. She meant a lot to both of them. She even entrusts her cat Laddoo to them when she passes.
Said abd Tiwa are also pulled together because their town’s Islamic center burnt down during Said’s visit and there are no plans to rebuild.
Despite the two barely spending any time together in years, they band together to save the Islamic center.
They’re both lovable characters. Thea’s back story has sadness in it but I seriously appreciate the fact that whilst this book dealt with several heavy, serious issues (including the death of a child) it was never overly sad.
Trust the cover. “This is a love story.”
Content Warnings
Minor: Grief, Islamophobia, and Child death
jennireadsmaybe's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
sad
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
Honestly, this was such a fun mash up by two authors I love (Adiba Jaigirdar + Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé. I was so glad I received both an e-ARC and an ALC. The audio narration is amazing all three narrators added a little something to each character. I definitely recommend listening!
Plot wise, I really enjoyed Tiwa and Said's childhood friends to haters to friends to lovers romance. They each know each other so well and it makes their past heartbreak all the more emotional for it. It also takes time for them to grow comfortable with each other again... which I loved because it gave me the moments of learning each other again.
An ode to Muslim communities, Tiwa and Said join forces to help rebuild their local Islamic center after it gets damaged in a fire. I am a huge fan of YA stories with political elements because teens are so powerful! AJ + FAI capture teenage struggles amidst so much other happenings for the characters so so well.
The commentary on anti-Blackness within the Muslim community is so so important. I hope this book gets into the hands of teenagers everywhere!
Plot wise, I really enjoyed Tiwa and Said's childhood friends to haters to friends to lovers romance. They each know each other so well and it makes their past heartbreak all the more emotional for it. It also takes time for them to grow comfortable with each other again... which I loved because it gave me the moments of learning each other again.
An ode to Muslim communities, Tiwa and Said join forces to help rebuild their local Islamic center after it gets damaged in a fire. I am a huge fan of YA stories with political elements because teens are so powerful! AJ + FAI capture teenage struggles amidst so much other happenings for the characters so so well.
The commentary on anti-Blackness within the Muslim community is so so important. I hope this book gets into the hands of teenagers everywhere!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief, Racism, and Child death
Moderate: Car accident, Death, Cursing, and Animal death
natashaleighton_'s review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
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
4.0
Mishti, misunderstandings and a moving sense of community abound in this richly heartfelt and swoon worthy (second chance, enemies to lovers) romance from best selling authors Adiba Jaigirdar and Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé.
I’m a sucker for all things enemies to lovers so when I heard the premise: two former friends turned enemies, who reconnect at a funeral and find themselves working together to save their town’s Islamic Centre from demolition. I knew I had to get my hands on a copy. And it definitely didn’t disappoint!
I do admit I was hesitant to start this at first having recently lost my Nan. But despite a funeral initially setting the scene; the romantic tension, comedic banter and tender focus on family and community soon proved a soothing balm for my fears as I was thoroughly swept up in Tiwa and Said’s efforts, and growing feelings (both platonic and romantic) for one another.
It’s told through the dual POVs of Said and Tiwa as they navigate the monumental changes in that have shaped their lives and reexamine the rift that ended their childhood friendship.
I loved getting to delve into both Said and Tiwa’s innermost thoughts and feelings, and adored their rivalry that showcased their opposing and competitive (yet thoroughly complimentary) personalities to perfection.
If you’re familiar with the Shakespearean play Much Ado About Nothing, Said and Tiwa reminded me a little of Beatrice and Benedict in their witty exchanges. I especially loved the flashbacks of Eids past (and THAT cake incident) which allow us to glimpse the carefree, happier moments they shared together.
I can’t not mention the supporting cast who were throughly entertaining too (especially Said’s slightly meddling sister Safiyah, Pokémon obsessed school friend Julian and Ladoo-the mischievous, sweet toothed cat that Said and Tiwa share custody of.) Even main antagonist Mayor Williams (a toothy villain straight out of a hallmark movie) was really interesting to watch, in a love to hate and cheer when they fail kind of way.
Overall a fun and enjoyable read that YA contemporary lovers or fans of Jaigirdar and Àbíké-Íyímídé’s other works should definitely consider checking out.
Also, a huge thanks to Fritha at Usborne for the proof
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief, Child death, and Racism
Moderate: Animal death, Death, and Cursing
Minor: Car accident and Fire/Fire injury
justinekorson's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
sad
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? Yes
4.0
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this story.
SPOILERS TO FOLLOW
I've read books by both Farisah and Adiba and so I was really excited to hear that they were co-writing a book together! I don't know anything really about Eid or the Muslim faith so it was very interesting to read about it in this book. Watching how Said and Tiwa practice their religion (both in different ways) was really cool. In a lot of ways I felt like Said in the story when he talked about not really feeling connected to his religion until he goes back home from boarding school.
The characters were really fun too! I think Said was my favorite. He was really funny and sarcastic and had a really great relationship with his sister Safiya. He was also a creative spirit (with his art) which I can relate too as well. Tiwa was very stubborn (relatable) and I loved how she was so passionate about saving the Islamic Center .I almost wish there was more Julian in the book too because he was really funny! You could tell how much he cared about Said and I enjoyed how he ALWAYS seemed to be talking about Pokemon (same Julian, same).
If you don't enjoy the miscommunication trope (who does enjoy it though) you might not like parts of this book. Basically all of Tiwa and Said's relationship in this story is one BIG misunderstanding. (I was actually a little pissed when I read what Safiya did and I didn't really care for her explanation either). The miscommunication here isn't as bad as it is in other books I've read though. If you can get past the fact that they're constantly snarky at one another i think you'll really enjoy this story!
SPOILERS TO FOLLOW
I've read books by both Farisah and Adiba and so I was really excited to hear that they were co-writing a book together! I don't know anything really about Eid or the Muslim faith so it was very interesting to read about it in this book. Watching how Said and Tiwa practice their religion (both in different ways) was really cool. In a lot of ways I felt like Said in the story when he talked about not really feeling connected to his religion until he goes back home from boarding school.
The characters were really fun too! I think Said was my favorite. He was really funny and sarcastic and had a really great relationship with his sister Safiya. He was also a creative spirit (with his art) which I can relate too as well. Tiwa was very stubborn (relatable) and I loved how she was so passionate about saving the Islamic Center .I almost wish there was more Julian in the book too because he was really funny! You could tell how much he cared about Said and I enjoyed how he ALWAYS seemed to be talking about Pokemon (same Julian, same).
If you don't enjoy the miscommunication trope (who does enjoy it though) you might not like parts of this book. Basically all of Tiwa and Said's relationship in this story is one BIG misunderstanding. (I was actually a little pissed when I read what Safiya did and I didn't really care for her explanation either). The miscommunication here isn't as bad as it is in other books I've read though. If you can get past the fact that they're constantly snarky at one another i think you'll really enjoy this story!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Car accident, Child death, Death, and Cursing
bookishmillennial's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
sad
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
disclaimer: I don’t really give starred reviews. I hope my reviews provide enough information to let you know if a book is for you or not. Find me here: https://linktr.ee/bookishmillennial
Thank you to Netgalley for the e-arc and Libro FM for the ALC. I am providing this review of my own accord.
Two favorites teamed up to deliver a banger of a co-written young adult romcom and coming of age story. When their favorite librarian Ms. Barnes passes away, Tiwa and Said are thrown together not only for funeral and memorial services, but are left something from Ms. Barnes' will. The catch is... they haven't talked in years really, since Said left for his boarding school, and tragedy hit Tiwa's family. This new forced proximity leaves an opening for them to finally contend with their disdain for each other, and if there's hope to rekindle their friendship ever again.
I appreciated the commentary on the anti-Blackness that Tiwa experienced by their own community, and the lateral emotional and mental violence that she experienced. I hope this opens more folks eyes that being Muslim does not have to *look* a certain way in order to be valid or "enough".
I also loved that the pain and anger that Tiwa and Said felt towards one another felt so real? Like, I can absolutely imagine being in either of their shoes at their age, and feeling the wrath just as they did. I didn't blame either of them for their frustrations, and I thought AJ & FAI illustrated this teenage angst and betrayal perfectly, as they typically do, so I am not surprised in the least.
Anyway, I loved reading about these two friends finding their way back to one another, amidst grief and pain, and holding onto the hope of a future alongside one another, and reveling in community.
Thank you to Netgalley for the e-arc and Libro FM for the ALC. I am providing this review of my own accord.
Two favorites teamed up to deliver a banger of a co-written young adult romcom and coming of age story. When their favorite librarian Ms. Barnes passes away, Tiwa and Said are thrown together not only for funeral and memorial services, but are left something from Ms. Barnes' will. The catch is... they haven't talked in years really, since Said left for his boarding school, and tragedy hit Tiwa's family. This new forced proximity leaves an opening for them to finally contend with their disdain for each other, and if there's hope to rekindle their friendship ever again.
I appreciated the commentary on the anti-Blackness that Tiwa experienced by their own community, and the lateral emotional and mental violence that she experienced. I hope this opens more folks eyes that being Muslim does not have to *look* a certain way in order to be valid or "enough".
I also loved that the pain and anger that Tiwa and Said felt towards one another felt so real? Like, I can absolutely imagine being in either of their shoes at their age, and feeling the wrath just as they did. I didn't blame either of them for their frustrations, and I thought AJ & FAI illustrated this teenage angst and betrayal perfectly, as they typically do, so I am not surprised in the least.
Anyway, I loved reading about these two friends finding their way back to one another, amidst grief and pain, and holding onto the hope of a future alongside one another, and reveling in community.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Grief, Child death, and Toxic friendship
Moderate: Animal death, Death, Fire/Fire injury, Car accident, and Cursing