A review by bookin_around
When You Look Like Us by Pamela N. Harris

challenging dark mysterious tense 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

This is an incredible debut novel that shines a direct light on the reality of how law enforcement, media, and the general public respond to missing Black girls. It also looks at the systemic issues that allow racism and oppression to remain in our society. Pamela Harris, the author, has a background in school counseling and I think this unique perspective is what enabled her to write extremely relatable characters. The mystery at the heart of the book is that of the main character's missing sister, and there are just enough clues dropped through the novel to keep the reader desperate to know what will happen next, without leaving the ending easy to guess. 
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