A review by livinliterary
The Taking of Jake Livingston by Ryan Douglass

dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

The story follows Jake Livingston, a Black teenager who can see ghosts, as he navigates the challenges of high school while dealing with his unsettling ability. Jake's life takes a darker turn when he encounters the vengeful spirit of Sawyer Doon, a school shooter who has a sinister agenda from beyond the grave.

Jake's character is compelling, providing a fresh perspective as a Black, queer protagonist facing both supernatural and real-world horrors.

The book occasionally suffers from a somewhat uneven pacing and a plot that can feel disjointed at times. Some characters could have been more fleshed out, and certain plot points might have benefitted from deeper exploration.

The resolution of the story might feel a bit abrupt to some , leaving a desire for more development in certain plot areas. If you enjoy stories that delve into the supernatural while addressing important social issues, this book is definitely worth adding to your reading list.