The story picks up at some points but some others are really slow. Some parts of the book feel very preachy and intent on stablishing just one narratiThe story picks up at some points but some others are really slow. Some parts of the book feel very preachy and intent on stablishing just one narrative which is not bad when the author knows to be subtle and creates a good plot but here the narrative seems to take over the plot at moments and we don't know whether we are reading a book or reading a manifesto. There is enough in the book that you don't feel overwhelmed by it but it does take away from the plot....more
Daniel Aleman's debut novel, "Indivisible," is a touching and timely story that explores themes of family, identity, and the immigrant Rating: 4 stars
Daniel Aleman's debut novel, "Indivisible," is a touching and timely story that explores themes of family, identity, and the immigrant experience. The story follows Mateo Garcia, a young boy whose life is turned upside down when his father is detained by ICE. As Mateo navigates the challenges of growing up without his father, he also grapples with questions of belonging and what it means to be American.
Aleman's writing is heartfelt and authentic, capturing the emotional turmoil of his characters with sensitivity and depth. The relationships in the novel are beautifully portrayed, particularly the bond between Mateo and his father, which serves as the emotional core of the story. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each struggling with their own demons and insecurities.
One of the strengths of "Indivisible" is its portrayal of the immigrant experience. Aleman sheds light on the complexities of immigration and the impact it has on families, highlighting the resilience and strength of those who are affected. The novel also touches on important themes of identity and self-acceptance, as Mateo grapples with his own sense of belonging in a country that often sees him as an outsider.
Overall, "Indivisible" is a powerful and poignant novel that resonates with authenticity and heart. Aleman's storytelling is compelling, drawing readers into Mateo's world and inviting them to empathize with his struggles. This is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page, a testament to the enduring power of family and the human spirit....more
Rose Szabo's "What Big Teeth" is a dark and atmospheric novel that puts a unique twist on the werewolf mythos. The story follows EleanoRating: 3 stars
Rose Szabo's "What Big Teeth" is a dark and atmospheric novel that puts a unique twist on the werewolf mythos. The story follows Eleanor, a young girl who returns to her family home after being expelled from boarding school, only to find herself caught up in the mysterious and sinister world of her relatives.
One of the strengths of the novel is its rich and evocative atmosphere. Szabo does a fantastic job of creating a sense of foreboding and unease, drawing the reader into Eleanor's world and keeping them on edge throughout the story. The setting, a crumbling mansion shrouded in secrets, adds to the eerie atmosphere and sets the stage for a compelling mystery.
The characters in "What Big Teeth" are complex and well-developed, each with their own motivations and secrets. Eleanor is a compelling protagonist, struggling to find her place in a family that seems determined to keep her at arm's length. The dynamics between the family members are fraught with tension, adding depth to the story and keeping the reader guessing about their true intentions.
However, the novel does have its flaws. The pacing is slow at times, with long stretches where not much seems to happen. Additionally, the story can be confusing, with several plot threads that are introduced but never fully explored. Some readers may also find the ending to be unsatisfying, as it leaves many questions unanswered.
Overall, "What Big Teeth" is a dark and atmospheric novel that will appeal to fans of gothic fiction and reimagined fairy tales. While it has its flaws, it is an intriguing and immersive read that will keep you turning pages until the very end....more
2.5 stars for this book David Levithan's "Ryan and Avery" presents an intriguing premise but falls short in execution. The story follows the lives of R2.5 stars for this book David Levithan's "Ryan and Avery" presents an intriguing premise but falls short in execution. The story follows the lives of Ryan and Avery, two individuals from different worlds whose paths cross unexpectedly. While the concept is promising, the narrative lacks depth, and the characters feel underdeveloped. The relationship between Ryan and Avery feels forced at times, and their interactions often lack authenticity. Additionally, the pacing of the story is uneven, with some parts dragging on while others feel rushed. Overall, "Ryan and Avery" is a mediocre read that fails to leave a lasting impression....more
Interesting take on the genre but might not as enjoyable to most people that are not familiar with the original Shakespeare works from which these chaInteresting take on the genre but might not as enjoyable to most people that are not familiar with the original Shakespeare works from which these characters are originally from. This will definitely be a great read for a literature class but an ok reading for the average reader. Kudos for the innovation tough....more
This was an ok book, not a lot of historical accuracy but it can be enjoyed by most readers. The ending did definitely felt rushed and the villain wasThis was an ok book, not a lot of historical accuracy but it can be enjoyed by most readers. The ending did definitely felt rushed and the villain was a non entity....more
"Zara Hossain is Here" by Sabina Khan is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the complexities of immigrant life in the United"Zara Hossain is Here" by Sabina Khan is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the complexities of immigrant life in the United States. The book offers a nuanced portrayal of the struggles faced by first-generation immigrant families, highlighting the challenges of balancing cultural identity with the desire for freedom and acceptance.
One of the strengths of the book is its realistic portrayal of the immigrant experience, without romanticizing or demonizing either the native or adopted country. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Zara, we see the internal conflict of someone who is proud of her heritage but also recognizes the opportunities and freedoms available in the United States.
The book also explores the nuances of human behavior, particularly in the interactions between characters. While some aspects of the characters' motivations are left vague, this serves to add depth to the narrative, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of human nature.
In conclusion, "Zara Hossain is Here" is a beautifully written and compelling novel that sheds light on the immigrant experience in a way that is both enlightening and inspiring. I highly recommend this book to readers of all backgrounds who are interested in exploring themes of identity, freedom, and acceptance....more
I did not like this book at all, I could not relate to the main character, I could not relate to the "plight" that the main character was going througI did not like this book at all, I could not relate to the main character, I could not relate to the "plight" that the main character was going through. To be honest I'm not sure what gender the character was even after reading the whole thing, even though I think that the vagueness was on purpose. That being said the ending was very strange and against everything that the main character seemed to profess in the first 100 pages. I do not like reading books in verse (I'm reading this for a committee). Sometimes we have to realize that even if a book is about a worthy cause does not mean that the book will be good. We have to judge books on their merits not on who happens to write it....more
This was also a book written in verse, I was able to better relate to the characters on this book although I have no idea why I had to read about the This was also a book written in verse, I was able to better relate to the characters on this book although I have no idea why I had to read about the point of view of a dog but it was not the worst thing. That being said the book did not seem to go anywhere anytime soon and it did not care about it. the bare bones story was good but it did not seem to amount to anything given the ending. Might be used in a book display for Hispanic month or something like that but beyond that I do not see the point of reading this book to gain an understanding in the Cuban immigrant experience when there are books that better deal with these issues. 2.5 Stars...more
This went went everywhere, I did not like the main character at first but she grew on me, I think this book was able to navigate the thin line betweenThis went went everywhere, I did not like the main character at first but she grew on me, I think this book was able to navigate the thin line between racial issues portrayed in this book. I think the minor characters needed more development and the book should have explored the relationship between the main character and her father more. ...more
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