A review by mayaism_01
Pet by Akwaeke Emezi

challenging dark emotional hopeful reflective sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I honestly don't know how to describe why this book is so brilliant. I've only heard great things about Akwaeke Emezi so I've been looking forward to (and slightly intimidated by) their books. I think Pet is one of the most intelligent presentations of how we confront change and progress in society. 

We see everything through the eyes of Jam - who is such a loveable and empathetic character - living in a world that is seemingly perfect and we watch as that idea of a perfect and safe world slowly crumbles. This book would be a great way to introduce children to activism, but also great at reminding adults that activism is never finished. Emezi makes you confront what you think is the wrong and right thing to do, what evil and monsters look like, and forces you to learn to be okay with being uncomfortable. This was just so so so good, I can't wait to read more of Emezi's work.
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