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A review by tay_af
Zainab Takes New York by Ayesha Harruna Attah
hopeful
lighthearted
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
3.0
ZAINAB TAKES NEW YORK has a fresh and funny take on a traditional post-university coming of age narrative. This book’s unique elements are what really make it shine—the distinct characters of the grandmothers, Zainab’s self-conscious monologues, and the somehow lighthearted-yet-serious engagement with inherited emotions and even traumas. Although nominally a romance, the romance takes a backseat to Zainab’s attempts to navigate New York City.
This book’s weak points lie in the pacing and occasionally the prose. It is a bit stilted or under-edited at times, and the pacing oscillates between feeling very slow to very tightly crammed. Although the book was drawn out, the ending felt entirely too sudden, especially the very end.
Overall, a nice read with unique and compelling elements, but some technical issues. I would recommend for fans of Mhairi McFarlane-style mix of romance and more serious character development.
I was provided an electronic proof of this book by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. Thank you!
This book’s weak points lie in the pacing and occasionally the prose. It is a bit stilted or under-edited at times, and the pacing oscillates between feeling very slow to very tightly crammed. Although the book was drawn out, the ending felt entirely too sudden, especially the very end.
Overall, a nice read with unique and compelling elements, but some technical issues. I would recommend for fans of Mhairi McFarlane-style mix of romance and more serious character development.
I was provided an electronic proof of this book by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. Thank you!