Monday, November 30, 2020

Review: With the Fire on High

With the Fire on HighWith the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

After her unplanned pregnancy during her freshman year of high school, people view Emoni Santiago differently. It doesn't slow her down, though. With the help and encouragement of her 'Buela, who watches her daughter during the day, Emoni makes tough choices and struggles to persevere through high school. She uses her passion for cooking and drive to create a better life for her daughter to pursue her dreams. Will she continue to make the same mistakes? Will her creativity and love of food be enough to elevate her out of a difficult situation? With the Fire on High is a solid second novel from Elisabeth Acevedo and great or anyone who loved her first, The Poet X.

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Tuesday, November 17, 2020

Review: Another Brooklyn

Another BrooklynAnother Brooklyn by Jacqueline Woodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As August boards the train to venture back into the city after attending her father's funeral, she recognizes an old friend which sends her hurtling through her own childhood memories. Through these lyrical, dream-like memories we learn about August's silent fears and treasured hopes along the backdrop of 1970's Brooklyn, NY. Jacqueline Woodson's searing portrait of a young girl discovering herself through the memories of her mother, being lifted up through childhood friendships, and ultimately overcoming the pain and suffering of it all. We find an unforgettable narrator who weaves a heartbreaking, poignant, and beautiful tale of becoming her true self. It's an instant classic that needs to be read by young adults and adults alike.

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