A review by booksenvogue
Big Girl by Mecca Jamilah Sullivan

emotional medium-paced

3.5

Favorite quote: “These women didn’t make up the world that boxed them in, Malaya now realized. They lived in it, just as she did, but it was made before and beyond them, by someone who cared less. She knew this world, understood its rules and melodies. But she didn’t need it forever. She could suck out its comforts like sugar candy from a straw, and then say no. She could look at their universe of ravenous shame, hold it at a distance, and decide for herself.” 

Thoughts: The writing was beautifully captivating but this book is heavy. There’s a lot of focus on Malaya’s weight, her struggles with navigating the world, and finding her voice.  While in parts this was difficult, I appreciated the vulnerability and unflinching narrative. I wish I could give this character a hug. I finished this book a few days ago and still have a book hangover. The nostalgia of the 90s was everything!