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loreadson 's review for:
Gutter Child
by Jael Richardson
A heartbreaking story, although set in an imaginary world, is full of parallels to reality. It’s premise is that these children have a debt that they are working their whole life to pay off, which leaves them struggling to ever get ahead, while being used and mistreated. When Elimina’s mother passed away she was sent into an academy with many rules for her to follow. It’s not an easy place to be and she quickly learns if she wished to survive she is on her own.
This was a difficult read at times, the situations these children were put in, truly it could have used so many trigger warnings. I did feel like the author did an amazing job of building this dystopian world, perfecting these characters; I really could feel their pain. Sometimes it was so heavy I found myself needing a pause before resuming. The themes it explored are so prevalent today , and I think that’s why it hit me so hard at times. Elimina’s strength despite the abuse , racism and hatred she experienced is inspiring, and a reminder that so many can overcome hardships, but I can’t shake how unjust the world can be. Definitely a book that will stay with me a long time.