Jasmyn's Reviews

This book was not at all what I had expected at first - it was different, but in a good way. The story follows Laila as she tries to adjust to life in America after fleeing from her country. The country remains unnamed for the entire story - the perfect choice by the author in order to avoid some backlash I'm sure. The country created is a merging of several that have had struggles over the past few years - all we know for sure is that it's in the Middle East. While the country may not have had a name, it definitely had an identity. It's culture and people come to life in many different ways - Laila's memories, news articles she reads, and in stories from other refugees.

But this isn't a story about a war-torn country. It's the story about a girl trying to find the truth about her past and live with her future. She was sheltered before she came here, but in a good way. She understands American culture, she's just never had to fit in in the middle of it. Surrounded by new people and places she begins to find herself and a new place.

Just as she begins to settle, things begin to fall apart again. Having been a large part of the politics in her country, her mother isn't content to start over. Her plots and schemes are twisted and I was amazed at how devious and cunning she was at the end. This is a must read in the YA contemporary genre.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*