A review by sunflowerjess
My Life as an Ice Cream Sandwich by Ibi Zoboi

fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, I strongly felt for and resonated with Ebony-Grace, particularly her awkwardness and how hard it was for her to be "normal" and fit in. I think my autistic girlfriend will resonate with her as well, in terms of how Ebony-Grace paid close attention to and mimicked others' social behaviors to fit in, when those behaviors did not come naturally to her. On the other hand, the character development of Ebony-Grace happened literally in the last few pages and none during the rest of the story, so that felt rushed and forced. Also, she never finds out or understands what was going on with her grandfather - she, along with the readers, get some hints, but nothing really developed with that story either. However, I loved the homage to Nichelle Nichols and seeing her through the eyes of young Black girl who dreams of being an astronaut.