Language: R (168 swears, 35 “f”; Mature Content: PG-13 (vandalism, mention of drugs, underage drinking, and condoms); Violence: PG-13 (gang violence)
BUYING ADVISORY: HS - OPTIONAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Chinelo aka Nelo used to have a group of friends who did everything together but that all changed when a kid was killed at the arcade. Nelo’s friends began moving away from Ginger East to “safer” neighborhoods and now it’s just her and her best friend Kate. Kate’s family owns the corner store in Ginger East, but one night a brick gets thrown at the store window. Nelo is determined to find out who vandalized the store so that Kate and her family won’t move away from Ginger East. Nelo and Kate seem to be growing apart during this difficult time. Will this be the end of their friendship or can Nelo find a way to keep Kate’s family from moving away while keeping their friendship intact?
Louisa Onomé’s debut, coming-of-age novel was a great read. Nelo’s character is strong and passionate yet not too stubborn or immature. She shows that anyone can make a difference in their community, no matter their age. This book is a pretty quick read even though it is 400 pages, and I found myself not wanting to put it down. I became invested in the story early on and wanted to know what happened to Ginger Store. There is also a great twist at the end that I never saw coming.
Reviewer: Tara McP., SLP
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