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A review by kayla_thebookishmama
Call Me Athena: Girl from Detroit by Colby Cedar Smith
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
5.0
This novel in verse was absolutely beautiful. The alternating storylines, the heartbreak, she hope, the coming-of-age aspect - it was all so well done! This is an immigrant story, and also the story of a child of immigrants.
The story focuses on Mary, a young Greek girl growing up in Detroit. There are also alternating POVs that take place at an earlier time period, and I enjoyed learning more about these characters and their connections as the story progressed. I really felt for Jeanne by the end, and I don’t think I ever stopped rooting for Mary and the life that she wanted.
More than anything, I loved that Mary held on to her dreams. And the note at the end from the author really helps to explain why this was so important.
This story is one that has such a deeply personal meaning, and it shows on every single page. It’s just outstanding. This is a perfect read if you like YA, historical fiction, or novels in verse. Everyone should read this book.
The story focuses on Mary, a young Greek girl growing up in Detroit. There are also alternating POVs that take place at an earlier time period, and I enjoyed learning more about these characters and their connections as the story progressed. I really felt for Jeanne by the end, and I don’t think I ever stopped rooting for Mary and the life that she wanted.
More than anything, I loved that Mary held on to her dreams. And the note at the end from the author really helps to explain why this was so important.
This story is one that has such a deeply personal meaning, and it shows on every single page. It’s just outstanding. This is a perfect read if you like YA, historical fiction, or novels in verse. Everyone should read this book.
Content Warnings
Minor: Death, Medical trauma, Medical content, and Blood