Posted by Note from Elena Reads: My best friend Lila and I have been reading pals for as long as I can remember. We trade books, recommend them to each other, and rant about our least favorite characters. So when she told me about a book she read called For Black Girls Like Me, I asked her if she wanted to review it for my blog. She’s a great writer, as well as an avid reader. Here is the guest review from Lila T., age 12:
The book, For Black Girls Like Me, is a wonderfully, and beautifully written story by Mariama J. Lockington. The story is told by Makeda, an adopted African-American girl.
After her family moves from Boston, Massachusetts to Albuquerque, New Mexico, Makeda is now suddenly aware, and unsure of where she fits into her family. Her all white family. At her new school, girls who seem to be her friends don’t seem to be too friendly any more, and after she is called the N-word by one of the girls in her class, Makeda feels as if she has no one to turn to. Her best friend Lena, is still in Boston. When her mother finds out, and removes Makeda and her sister Eve from their school, Makeda feels lonelier than ever.
Life becomes even harder for Makeda when her mom tries to commit suicide, she knows her life will never be the same.
I liked this book because it has a lot of situations I can relate to. Like when Makeda argues with her older sister, I argue with my older brother. The book also shows us how Makeda prevails through so many tough situations in her life. And I think we can all relate to that. I also cried throughout this book, and I felt how angry Makeda was, and how hurt she was feeling at times. Being able to look at the world from Makeda’s perspective is very unique, and that is what I love most about the book.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a diverse, and captivating story. But, the story’s plot is more for mature audiences.
I would rate this book 4/4 roses.
Elena Reads and Reviews 