Have you ever read a book, turned to the last page, and audibly exclaimed “WHAT THE F JUST HAPPENED!?” Newly starring in one of my favorite categories: “Wow I really need to process that” is this shining debut by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé.
ACE OF SPADES is a page-turning, keep-you-guessing, RIDE of a book that doesn’t just provide mindless entertainment, but rather goes deep to the heart of some really important issues like systematic racism, homophobia, and social inequality.
When I think back to my experience of reading this book, what stood out to me most was its depth. Devon and Chiamaka, our main characters, go through an intense amount of emotional abuse and trauma throughout the story. While it could’ve been easily glossed over and minimized, the reality of Àbíké-Íyímídé’s writing was anything but. They are not the stereotypical high school characters that lack the capacity to grow and change, but rather there is such depth and authenticity in their journeys. And, that is what makes this story one that will stand out this year for me. IF I could’ve asked for anything more it would’ve simply been slower pacing at the climax/ resolving action of the story; the end felt a bit rushed. But all in all, I didn't miss out on any of the corresponding emotional experience. I was on my toes the whole way through.
I’d highly recommend this book to be read in a buddy read or book club setting (especially if under the age of 20). It’s one of those stories that needs a solid decompression period and some good think time about how all of these issues apply directly to our lives. While the conflict in ACE OF SPADES is greatly dramatized, there are so many glimmers of truth that are absolutely worth our time to consider. Thank you Faridah for writing not only a well-constructed and entertaining story but one that opens the door to important conversations that our world would benefit from continuing to have.
ACE OF SPADES is a page-turning, keep-you-guessing, RIDE of a book that doesn’t just provide mindless entertainment, but rather goes deep to the heart of some really important issues like systematic racism, homophobia, and social inequality.
When I think back to my experience of reading this book, what stood out to me most was its depth. Devon and Chiamaka, our main characters, go through an intense amount of emotional abuse and trauma throughout the story. While it could’ve been easily glossed over and minimized, the reality of Àbíké-Íyímídé’s writing was anything but. They are not the stereotypical high school characters that lack the capacity to grow and change, but rather there is such depth and authenticity in their journeys. And, that is what makes this story one that will stand out this year for me. IF I could’ve asked for anything more it would’ve simply been slower pacing at the climax/ resolving action of the story; the end felt a bit rushed. But all in all, I didn't miss out on any of the corresponding emotional experience. I was on my toes the whole way through.
I’d highly recommend this book to be read in a buddy read or book club setting (especially if under the age of 20). It’s one of those stories that needs a solid decompression period and some good think time about how all of these issues apply directly to our lives. While the conflict in ACE OF SPADES is greatly dramatized, there are so many glimmers of truth that are absolutely worth our time to consider. Thank you Faridah for writing not only a well-constructed and entertaining story but one that opens the door to important conversations that our world would benefit from continuing to have.