A review by jourdanicus
With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo

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
I really enjoyed this book. I feel like the author struck a realistic balance between Emoni being mature for her age but still very much a teenager despite having the very adult responsibility of being a mom. Some of her choices annoyed me a little, but I think that's sometimes a given when reading about a character in a younger developmental stage of life. There were some heavier topics discussed, and some minor conflicts between characters, but I think the main focus was on the good and the love in Emoni's life. I think the conflict was just enough to create contrast and realism. In some places I did start feeling like nothing much was happening, but I appreciated this book for being a "lighter" read (i.e. low drama + happy ending :) ) which we all do need from time to time.
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