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A review by hardkaapi
Pet by Akwaeke Emezi
adventurous
emotional
informative
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
"Monsters don't look like anything. That's the whole point"
This absolute masterpiece is written by Akwaeke Emezi, a Nigerian trans non-binary author who has succeeded in creating a story that shines a light over society's weaknesses. Our protagonist is Jam, a child in utopian Lucille who has grown up, like all other kids, with the knowledge that Lucille is now monster-free. The term "monster" is a placeholder for the lying politicians, corrupt police, the billionaires, and criminals who were flushed out and rehabilitated by the "angels" to create a perfect Lucille. Jam's life takes a turn when she meets Pet, a creature with the sole purpose of hunting a monster in Jam's best friend's house. I know it all sounds like a fantasy novel but please do not make any assumptions and trust me because this is one of the most inclusive books I have read, for once by an author whose voice is accurate and important to the topics being covered. It speaks volumes on transitioning, polyamory, love, family, child abuse, fear, and friendship in just 200 pages.
Having a child protagonist is interesting because it offers a different perspective and makes you realize how quick we are to create beliefs. Each character, name, and moment adds something to the story and you will find lessons in almost every line ("We're alive because we can be hurt; we're alive because we can heal"). This book should not be so niche, it is not only a power-packed social commentary but is such a well written story that it will keep you excited. This book should be taught in schools because it is an experience that will end in growth, information and a reality check. This is one of those books that does not try to confuse you with difficult language or a hard to follow plot, it lays itself bare as you try to confront it.
This absolute masterpiece is written by Akwaeke Emezi, a Nigerian trans non-binary author who has succeeded in creating a story that shines a light over society's weaknesses. Our protagonist is Jam, a child in utopian Lucille who has grown up, like all other kids, with the knowledge that Lucille is now monster-free. The term "monster" is a placeholder for the lying politicians, corrupt police, the billionaires, and criminals who were flushed out and rehabilitated by the "angels" to create a perfect Lucille. Jam's life takes a turn when she meets Pet, a creature with the sole purpose of hunting a monster in Jam's best friend's house. I know it all sounds like a fantasy novel but please do not make any assumptions and trust me because this is one of the most inclusive books I have read, for once by an author whose voice is accurate and important to the topics being covered. It speaks volumes on transitioning, polyamory, love, family, child abuse, fear, and friendship in just 200 pages.
Having a child protagonist is interesting because it offers a different perspective and makes you realize how quick we are to create beliefs. Each character, name, and moment adds something to the story and you will find lessons in almost every line ("We're alive because we can be hurt; we're alive because we can heal"). This book should not be so niche, it is not only a power-packed social commentary but is such a well written story that it will keep you excited. This book should be taught in schools because it is an experience that will end in growth, information and a reality check. This is one of those books that does not try to confuse you with difficult language or a hard to follow plot, it lays itself bare as you try to confront it.