A review by smillas_tales
Zara Hossain Is Here by Sabina Khan

tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

This book offers a view into the uncertain situations many immigrants find themselves in, and It’s a heavily political and family-oriented story! It also explores the intersectionality of race, religion and sexuality, and while it isn’t a new favorite, I really enjoyed my time with it! 

This story focuses on a lot of important topics, and I loved how none of the issues were sugarcoated! I also really liked the casual queer representation, as there isn’t made a big deal of Zara’s sexuality. I also appreciated that her safety as a queer woman as well as a woman of color and a Muslim was discussed, as these intersectionalities aren’t often explored this thoroughly in YA literature.

While I loved many aspects of this book, the execution was lacking. I had a hard time getting into the writing style, as I found the dialogue to be somewhat awkward, as well as the descriptions to be lacking. I never got a clear picture of any of the characters or their surroundings, which is something I need to really get enveloped in a story. The ending was also really rushed, and I lacked a more comprehensive conclusion.

Additionally, the romance just didn’t work for me. The reader is told that Zara and Chloe like each other, but not actually shown why. We don’t get to see them connect, and it’s very insta-lovey, which I can’t stand. It’s definitely a sub-plot though, so don’t let it keep you from reading this! 

Although it isn’t a new favorite, I do highly recommend this if you’re looking for a YA contemporary with a political focus and great queer representation!
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