Beautiful

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keelz23 Avatar

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I am really heartened to have recently read so many books tackling the generational trauma of racism and how its legacy impacts the present in really personal ways. This book follows Avery, a Black high schooler from Washington DC as she returns with her mom and white dad to her estranged and dying grandmother's house in a Georgia town that still bears the marks of segregation in its schools, neighborhoods, and statues.

I loved this story about finding community and refusing to be forgotten. Avery's bravery in building a relationship with her grandma, fighting for and being there for Simone as she figures out her sexuality, and standing up to Jade's family was touching and inspiring.

This book made me cry and really root for Avery and Simone. The characters felt real and I loved Mama Letty. I loved how the story demonstrated that even strong successful people can be affected by trauma.