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Summary: Savannah is a freshman who worked hard to make her mothers selfless giving a reward. During her high school years, she is at the top of her class, is well respected and is confident that she is going places. In retrospect, she would rather enroll in a predominately black college near her home opposed to the mere opposite that is supposed to create a world of opportunity. Upon arrival to the unknown world of opportunity, she discovers that there is a price to pay for what is portrayed versus what is true. Through several twist and turns she experiences growing pains that often leave her hurt and puzzled. Savannah receives front row seats to what privilege looks like, what injustice feels like and how hypocrisy is carried out. How will she handle the challenges? Will she stay at the university of promise, or will she decide to take a different route?
Strengths: Lee portrays a vivid picture of a college experience that leaves a student straddling the fence with choices that determine the future. Weaknesses: A true cliffhanger. I wonder if there will be a sequel. I would love to know what Savannah does next. Thoughts: This debut novel is well crafted, insightful, and relatable for young adult readers. It is one of the best that I’ve read in a few years and mirrors my own personal experiences from Ivy League to HBCU. |
Summary: Deep down inside, Michael is aware of who he is and what he feels as a little boy. However, growing up in the United Kingdom he grapples with how he will be perceived being young, of mixed race and gay. Throughout his journey he walks into his truth but not without challenge. Although, he expresses some hesitancy as he identifies with his feelings, the love and support from his mother gives him the inner strength. Michael soon encounters a place where he fits in with people who can relate to who he is and how he feels. How will he become the person who he envisions himself to be? What does that look like? How will he be confident enough to love himself no matter what?
Strengths: This is a story that demonstrates how courage, determination and honesty meet in the middle. Michael’s self-love is fragile at moments but never broken. Several of the hurdles that he faces are common among tweens, teens and young adults. Weaknesses: Living in a imperfect but supportive environment was positive for Michael, but varies within families. This was a nice perspective. Thoughts: This story was written in real time. It allows the reader to feel connected to Michael as if he were a family member or friend. |
Summary: A Phoenix First Must Burn is a fascinating anthology packed with fantasy and science fiction written by black women. Its magical elements illustrate the illusion of a great escape to worlds beyond our very own. There are 16 stories told in a manner that displays dynamic talent with ambience of twisted horizons. Each of them allows you to get lost in the detailed thoughts of the authors writing style through imagination and wonder. Amerie takes you to a world that prompts the thought of no return. Acevedo taps into the power of healing as an inborn gift. Roanhorse speaks to the risk involved in embracing who you are and finding love. Johnson entangles “5” elements of the earth as she describes family dynamics. Daud, Ireland and McKinney leave you thinking of what if the story continued. Clayton sends the reader on a unique path of a healing heart. Caldwell provides symbolism in the world of vampires. Lore brings commonality and suspicion to the forefront. Zoboi opens your eyes to the notion that it is more than just the color of your skin but how complexion is also a factor that can be haunting for self-esteem. Paige is crafty as she expels the importance of living your truth. Woodfolk makes you wonder if love is worth the turmoil. Davis and Strong exposes you to crisis and the impact they have when considering the instances of choice versus survival. Finally, Corrie reminds you that nobody is perfect, but decisions impact the future.
Strengths: These stories are relevant for women across culture but are explicitly told by black women to represent the black experience. The authors have done a phenomenal job at sparking your interest, relatability, and thought-provoking segments within each story. Weaknesses: As a reader you will wonder what if the story ended differently. However, there is ultimate respect for the portrait every author brings to the table. Thoughts: This a great book for beginners and those who prefer fantasy and science fiction. The perk of this book is that it allows you to decide which story line or writing style is suitable for you as a young adult or adult reader. All of the authors display individuality that opens so many doors for both fantasy and science fiction. |
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