Reviews

Rafa and the Real Boy by Emily Juniper

shinesalot's review

5.0

My favorite thing about Emily's writing is how she connects with the reader, right to your core. Just like her poetry, I felt like I knew her characters, like they were people I went to school with, people I could have cried with, shared secrets and snacks with on a fall day, the experience is visceral with her writing. From the first page to the last, you are enveloped in Rafa's confusing and emotional world - filled with mystery and pain - you will stay up way beyond a reasonable bedtime to unravel it. Then you will be picking your heart up off the floor as you reconcile with the bravery and vulnerability these young people endure to find justice and peace.

chronicallytristan's review

5.0

From the very first page, this book was captivating. I was close to cancelling all plans so I could read it in one sitting. I haven’t enjoyed a book like this in a long time. The story covers many struggles we face as teenagers; being self-conscious to a fault, struggling with our identity, mental illness, predators, love, loss, friendship, navigating situations while adults don’t listen, and more. So many complex situations were so beautifully represented and displayed in this story. I will be recommending this book to everyone I know.