Poignant, YA novel with strongly relevant themes worthy of discussion
I really got sucked in by this author’s writing style and found it easy to immerse myself in the story. It doesn’t take the reader long to connect emotionally with the main character, Jay & understand his point of view. His family is originally from the Philippines (now living in the US) and he has just learned that his 17-year-old cousin was murdered by police. The death relating to a new governmental initiative to halt the drug epidemic by street executions. I find the family dynamics very interesting and see truth in the self-centered way American’s focus only on their nuclear family and put all their emphasis on education and careers of their children. Jay’s conflict within himself is growing. His disgust with himself and society is palpable, and the reader can feel he is on the precipice of change.
There are culturally important themes that I’m excited to see explored in this novel. Such as how accessible the internet is, our ease of access to a plethora of information, and regular news in countries far from our own.
The author also touches on the concept regarding how American’s are aware of humanity issues in other countries, yet we seem indifferent and too far removed from it. I think this book is going to pack an emotional punch and the humanitarian themes are much needed in YA literature today. I already spotted several phrases the author spat out that made me want to reach for my highlighter. This is going to be a memorable book.
There are culturally important themes that I’m excited to see explored in this novel. Such as how accessible the internet is, our ease of access to a plethora of information, and regular news in countries far from our own.
The author also touches on the concept regarding how American’s are aware of humanity issues in other countries, yet we seem indifferent and too far removed from it. I think this book is going to pack an emotional punch and the humanitarian themes are much needed in YA literature today. I already spotted several phrases the author spat out that made me want to reach for my highlighter. This is going to be a memorable book.