I read this ages ago and forgot to review it.
Anyway, it's a great coming-of-age story with a strong storyline about Jay's journey to the Philippines to learn and understand more about the passing of his cousin Jun (and, in the journey, he learns some things about Jun and how his death came to be).
The story hits some hard topics and complex themes but it's still a great read and an important read.
This is a good read for Filipino representation (probably not seen nearly enough in YA fiction). It also gives perspective on a lot of things--culture, family, grief, the war on drugs (which I don't think is covered enough in YA lit), and other interesting topics.
So, all in all it's a well-written and interesting story but, for me at least, also a learning experience in many ways.
I look forward to other offerings from this author and am thankful for my copy.
Anyway, it's a great coming-of-age story with a strong storyline about Jay's journey to the Philippines to learn and understand more about the passing of his cousin Jun (and, in the journey, he learns some things about Jun and how his death came to be).
The story hits some hard topics and complex themes but it's still a great read and an important read.
This is a good read for Filipino representation (probably not seen nearly enough in YA fiction). It also gives perspective on a lot of things--culture, family, grief, the war on drugs (which I don't think is covered enough in YA lit), and other interesting topics.
So, all in all it's a well-written and interesting story but, for me at least, also a learning experience in many ways.
I look forward to other offerings from this author and am thankful for my copy.