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A review by megdaven
Somewhere Between Bitter and Sweet by Laekan Zea Kemp
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
tense
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? It's complicated
3.0
This is a YA about two teenagers who are battling inner (mental health issues) and outer demons (documentation and family), set in the backdrop of a neighborhood restaurant who provides the community more than food. And of course they fall in love. Penny wants to
feed people and feels purpose through her food and Xander likes to cook, but is insecure about where he belongs in part because of being undocumented. The story follows their paths to better understanding of themselves, the connection that food brings, and believing in your abilities. I think as a teen I would have loved this, so if YA is your thing - check it out. Also I liked that it did not have a neat ending completely which I feel is atypical for YA but realistic for one of the main them selves.
feed people and feels purpose through her food and Xander likes to cook, but is insecure about where he belongs in part because of being undocumented. The story follows their paths to better understanding of themselves, the connection that food brings, and believing in your abilities. I think as a teen I would have loved this, so if YA is your thing - check it out. Also I liked that it did not have a neat ending completely which I feel is atypical for YA but realistic for one of the main them selves.