Reviewed by Booked up and busy

SYNOPSIS: set in Toronto Canada, This novel follows Kara from girlhood to adulthood in 12 interconnected stories. Kara is caught in the middle of her Canadian nationality and her desire to be a ‘true Jamaican’ through the struggles and life lessons of her grandmother and mother who she has very conflicting relationships with.

COVER: I think I was drawn more to the words ‘Plantain’ than the actual artwork itself 😋😋

MY THOUGHTS: Based on Jamaican culture, this story explores friendships, expectations and mother daughter relationships over generations. I loved how this book was structured, it reads more like a novel rather than a collection of stories. The characters are very complex and well developed and the pace of the story works well throughout. Each story is beautifully written and contributed to the coming of age of Kara, you really grow with Kara and experience her turbulent development from elementary school to adulthood. I empathised with Kara throughout the book from moments such as her coping with the pressures of her mother and grandmother wanting her to behave in a different way compared to other children, to her struggles with intimacy and relationships which were very relatable. This book is well written and highlights the great artistry and creativity from the author @zalikarb would love to read more from this author.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5 (Fiction 258 pages)