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crschu 's review for:

Maame by Jessica George
3.75
dark emotional funny hopeful slow-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

Maame is a sweet story and a fast read that explores balancing self-discovery / self-love with complex familial obligations in the face of tragedy.  the story also focuses on identity with respect to being the child of immigrants and being black in predominately white spaces.  

i found Maddie’s mom to be very frustrating, but i did like the arch of their relationship throughout the story.  i especially appreciate that her mom was supportive of Maddie seeking therapy and i loved the realizations that Maddie has about the similarities between her mom and herself.  

i found the writing style juvenile and i did not like the use of “Googling” — though both of those things reflected Maddie’s maturity level. as the book went on i found Maddie’s innocence more endearing and less annoying.