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A review by elm
Abroad: Book Two by Liz Jacobs
5.0
ALL BOOKS SHOULD BE THIS DIVERSE!!!! no, really! this book integrates complex themes such as sexuality, race, mental health, identity, family, friendship, and belonging so flawlessly, I am OVERWHELMED! why can't all books be like this? it's not that hard!!! anyway, as with the first book this story is very character driven and what a bunch of diverse, relatable, and complex characters they are! I truly felt like I could see a bit of myself in each and every one of them.
the book also doesn't shy away from 'tough' issues. indeed, the way in which the book boldly address the intersectionality of sexuality and race is masterfully done. then there's the way the book talks about identity, belonging and trying to juggle those while also being true to yourself. there's this really memorable line:
"He could cling to his Jewish roots, he could cling to Russia, but nowhere could he see himself reflected as a scared queer boy, because Russia had erased him from history."
I mean.. GOD this line hit me so hard. this is why we need representation!! why we need more books just like this one!! look.. all I'm saying is just ALL AUTHORS NEED TO GET ON LIZ JACOBS' LEVEL. also, everyone should read this series. it's a good one!
the book also doesn't shy away from 'tough' issues. indeed, the way in which the book boldly address the intersectionality of sexuality and race is masterfully done. then there's the way the book talks about identity, belonging and trying to juggle those while also being true to yourself. there's this really memorable line:
"He could cling to his Jewish roots, he could cling to Russia, but nowhere could he see himself reflected as a scared queer boy, because Russia had erased him from history."
I mean.. GOD this line hit me so hard. this is why we need representation!! why we need more books just like this one!! look.. all I'm saying is just ALL AUTHORS NEED TO GET ON LIZ JACOBS' LEVEL. also, everyone should read this series. it's a good one!