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A review by girlglitch
Eight Pieces of Silva by Patrice Lawrence
4.0
The premise of Eight Pieces of Silva is intriguing from the start: there's a secret at its heart without it being a straight-up mystery.
Becks is an engaging main character, full of youthful confidence and naivety. Her story addresses many complex issues, including family, race and romantic love, but it's all woven together so instinctively, it never feels like Lawrence is flogging Themes with a capital T. Becks' world feels real, and her character development is wonderfully natural. It's the kind of seamless writing you only see in the very best UKYA.
Becks' London is very much that of a local, at once sprawling and familiar, which may feel a little alienating to readers who don't know the city. At times it also feels like the narrative is oversaturated with references (and I say this as a long-time K-pop fan). While this adds a realistic specificity, at times it felt like a barrier to really getting to know the characters.
Eight PIeces of Silva is a messy mystery but it's also an engaging UKYA, exploring some complex issues in a relatable way.
*Thank you to Hachette Kids for granting my Netgalley wish!*
Becks is an engaging main character, full of youthful confidence and naivety. Her story addresses many complex issues, including family, race and romantic love, but it's all woven together so instinctively, it never feels like Lawrence is flogging Themes with a capital T. Becks' world feels real, and her character development is wonderfully natural. It's the kind of seamless writing you only see in the very best UKYA.
Becks' London is very much that of a local, at once sprawling and familiar, which may feel a little alienating to readers who don't know the city. At times it also feels like the narrative is oversaturated with references (and I say this as a long-time K-pop fan). While this adds a realistic specificity, at times it felt like a barrier to really getting to know the characters.
Eight PIeces of Silva is a messy mystery but it's also an engaging UKYA, exploring some complex issues in a relatable way.
*Thank you to Hachette Kids for granting my Netgalley wish!*