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A review by thepetitepunk
At the Edge of the Haight by Katherine Seligman
4.0
Thank you Algonquin Books for providing me with an e-ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
Twenty year old Maddy Donaldo, a homeless woman in San Francisco, has lived a relatively simple life until she and her dog Root witness the murder of a boy in Golden Gate Park. Now, everyone seems interested in Maddy and what she saw, ultimately changing her relationship with people both new and familiar. From friendships, estranged family members, shelters, police, and understanding oneself, At the Edge of the Haight gives a glimpse into what it's like to be young and homeless.
This was a very easy book to read, full of interesting characters and conversations. It definitely gave me a better idea of what homelessness can look like and made me consider some things that I haven't thought about before. Although this book is centered around homelessness and a murder, it's a relatively quiet book that has a heavier focus on characters and themes rather than plot. I think the pacing was a bit abnormal compared to the other contemporary realistic fiction novels that I've read, but I still thought it was enjoyable. The writing style is simple in the way that it leaves readers with vivid descriptions, well-thought-out internal conflict, and memorable characters, without being overwhelming to read. This novel is marketed as an adult novel, but I think young adult readers would enjoy it too due to the style of writing. (I think new adult would be the best age group to categorize this book!)
Overall, At the Edge of the Haight is a thoughtful book about homelessness and discovering what one wants in life. I would recommend this to YA contemporary readers and anyone looking for a quiet book that deals with heavy subjects.
3.5 stars
Twenty year old Maddy Donaldo, a homeless woman in San Francisco, has lived a relatively simple life until she and her dog Root witness the murder of a boy in Golden Gate Park. Now, everyone seems interested in Maddy and what she saw, ultimately changing her relationship with people both new and familiar. From friendships, estranged family members, shelters, police, and understanding oneself, At the Edge of the Haight gives a glimpse into what it's like to be young and homeless.
This was a very easy book to read, full of interesting characters and conversations. It definitely gave me a better idea of what homelessness can look like and made me consider some things that I haven't thought about before. Although this book is centered around homelessness and a murder, it's a relatively quiet book that has a heavier focus on characters and themes rather than plot. I think the pacing was a bit abnormal compared to the other contemporary realistic fiction novels that I've read, but I still thought it was enjoyable. The writing style is simple in the way that it leaves readers with vivid descriptions, well-thought-out internal conflict, and memorable characters, without being overwhelming to read. This novel is marketed as an adult novel, but I think young adult readers would enjoy it too due to the style of writing. (I think new adult would be the best age group to categorize this book!)
Overall, At the Edge of the Haight is a thoughtful book about homelessness and discovering what one wants in life. I would recommend this to YA contemporary readers and anyone looking for a quiet book that deals with heavy subjects.