A review by twistykris
Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-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

5.0

"How can you lose an entire person, only to gain a part of them back in someone entirely new?"

I saw a TikTok that recommended listening to the audiobook version and I'm so glad I took that advice. I can imagine reading this novel in verse would be beautiful, but as a white woman living in America, listening to it was SO impactful. Elizabeth Acevedo and Melania-Luisa Marte's voices truly add to the experience that is this book, making the verse sound natural and powerful.

I loved the dual perspective between the two girls, from finding about their father's death, their grief, discovering each other's existence, and the joy and struggles of newly found sisterhood. Filled with power, emotion, and culture, this is a beautifully written work and my first- but certainly not my last-  Elizabeth Acevedo novel.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings