Book Reviews — Akash's Creative Blog

1) Book Review (Seen - True Stories of Marginalized Trailblazers: Rachel Carson)

This Seen - True Stories of Marginalized Trailblazers book is about the one and only Rachel Carson, an amazing visionary at her time. She is a lover of nature and embarks on a journey to protect it. Once she understands the human's negative impact on it and an untested chemical called DDT killing many living organisms, she is heartbroken. Still, she stands out for her endangered companions, trying to reach out to the public for prevent harming them. Will she make the public understand about all these calamities that are happening right under their noses? Read to find out!

Writing a normal graphic novel is great. Writing a graphic novel as an autobiography is epic! This book of the series cleverly portrays Carson's life of ups and downs. Willis also opts for the exact words to describe Rachel's life. This book is definitely my cup of tea. I would recommend this novel to anyone who wants to learn a life story through an exciting graphic novel design. This, for me, would be rated 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things about this book is how well expressed Carson's life is. It perfectly shows emotions on which scene and how she felt about it. With these descriptions I could easily relate myself to her experiences.

2) Book Review (Seekers of the Aweto: The Hunt Is On)

Nie Jun's well-crafted first-book-of-a-series is about Xinyue (a little boy), Qiliu (his "big brother"), and Bu Ren Niang (their "mother"). They are all aweto seekers, and an aweto is a baby of a chadolo (colorful earth deities), and are rumored to contain the chadolos' souls. It also contains special powers that make it a plant during summer and worms during winters while healing any ailment under the Sun. The story is set through the legendary Silk Road as the trio tries to discover an even rarer breed, the celestial aweto. It is said that whoever is in possession of it shall have eternal life. Will the "family" discover the celestial aweto? Read to find out!

Nie Jun's creative mindset beautifully elaborated this unique story. I loved this book because of how well the feelings are expressed even in this graphic story! It is almost inestimable for me to even describe the planned narration of the story. It is an excellent start for anyone, from beginners to experts. I would definitely rate this book 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things about Seekers of the Aweto: The Hunt Is On is how each character is perfectly voiced. Everyone plays a main role in the story, not just one person like in most books. This is a phenomenal idea because of its promotion of each and every character.

3) Book Review (A House Divided: The Winter of Walking Stone)

Henrietta Achilles, the main protagonist, appears again in her magic home for the third time in this amazing "A House Divided" series, but now, a colossal drawback emerges from the peaceful period. Along with her allies she must survive and conquer the walking stone (a creation from her deceased wizard relative's enemy). This is the time to show no mercy, or her house will be divided, indeed! Will Henrietta defeat these monsters? Will the stone giants have the upper hand? Read to find out!

I believe Hornig intelligently created this masterpiece. It is definitely a nail-biting page-turner the made me sit at the edge of my seat. All these mixed-emotions and feelings immersed me into Henrietta's world of fantasy. I felt like I was a character in the book due to all of its feelings I could relate to. Also, all characters are treated equally, instead of being biassed to just the hero. I would recommend this book to anyone who just loves a great read, or who would love to learn a lesson about teamwork.

A memorable thing about this book is that it matches so well with the previous books in the series. Most series do not have a continuous flow of storyline in the upcoming books. Some of the characters and ideas from the previous novels are applied for some solutions for this novel which keeps A House Divided alive!

4) Book Review (Artemis Fowl: The Arctic Incident (The Graphic Novel))

This book of the Artemis Fowl series blew my mind away! Intricate plots, outstanding narration, and beautiful story-telling were just some of the features that made this graphic novel my cup of tea. The main character, Artemis Fowl, definitely makes the series still alive with his infamous, quick wit and planning. His allies, Butler, Holly (Captain Short), and Julius are back as well from the previous book with some more action, as well! Now, Artemis has a problem: his dad is captured. He tries to discover his father with his comrades right beside him. Will he save his dad? Will Artemis fail? Read to find out!

Colfer again proves his brilliant creative creativity with The Arctic Incident. This book made me sit at the edge of my seat in various heroic and gripping moments placed excellently throughout it. As wacky as it sounds, Fowl is a criminal for positive deeds. I love that even though he may be a notorious mastermind on the outside, his inside is kind-hearted.Also, I felt that it was a smooth flow from the first book of the series since this feature made it easier to understand Artemis Fowl: The Arctic Incident. I would definitely rate this novel 5 out of 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things about this book is that there are many twists and surprises. When everything is fine, suddenly, something goes awry until the end of this novel. It is definitely a great way to hook the readers until turning the last page.

5) Book Review (Bronte)

Bronte is definitely an inspiring graphic novel for all young kids and adults alike! Charlotte, Emily and Anne Bronte are the main protagonists who seek to be more successful writers due to the poor economic status of their family. With their brother (Branwell) ill and drunk and their father worried about him, they have to overcome these hardships to support the family from splitting apart. Will the sisters become successful authors? Will they support the family? Read to find out!

Santoni perfectly wrote and drew each scene of the book for the readers to understand and visualize. I also loved how the characters express their feelings so frankly in any situation, so it gives a sense of originality. Also, it is very difficult to entwine real events with a graphic novel, but Manuela did it outstandingly and I loved it. I would recommend this novel for anyone who just loves a great read or wants to learn more about the Bronte sisters. I would definitely rate this 5 out of 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things about this book is how the sisters dealt with issues together whenever they had one. Even when some one of them is not concurring with the others, at the end, they will definitely overcome anything that stands in their way. In my opinion, Santoni pictured this crisp and clear!

6) Book Review (Ms. Marvel: Outlawed)

This Ms. Marvel book is an exciting page-turner for any superhero fans! With pieces from its different volumes, this is a very realistic and action-packed comic that makes it very enticing! Ms. Marvel (Kamala Khan) is faced with various obstacles and challenges with each villain she is in a battle with. Along with her superhero life, she has to have control over her personal one as well. Dealing with an accident that happened to her father (she believes is because of her) and companion issues, she has a tough time of living life. Will Kamala survive both the lives she is living right now? Will Ms. Marvel defeat the foes and restore peace upon her city? Read to find out!

This book is definitely my cup of tea because Ahmed's twists and turns of the plot cause me to feel as if I am in Kamala's world. I loved what everyone else enjoys and feels rejuvenated in a superhero comic. Superpowers! Ms. Marvel's superhero powers are amazing as she has everything a superhero would need. Also, Kamala's feelings when there is a special moment feels so real that I feel as if she is a real person! I would definitely rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things about this comic is that the writing is very natural and smoothly flowing. Some of Kamala's personal life events can be related to everyone else's and this helps the reader believe the characters. Instead of exaggerating. Saladin has created a normal environment with Kamala's family and companions.

7) Book Review (Sabrina - the teenage witch: Something Wicked)

This Sabrina - the teenage witch book, consists of action-packed scenes and ultimate twists that blew my mind away! Sabrina is the main protagonist along with her two nice aunts and companions Radka and Ren. She fights to protect her own city and tries to defeat her third evil aunt trying to kill her. Sabrina also has difficulty managing her personal and magical life along with barely keeping Radka and Ren from turning into wendigos (monsters). Sabrina has to keep order, or if she fails everything will break apart. Will Sabrina become successful? Will she conquer all her enemies? Read to find out!

This book was definitely my cup of tea. Thompson and Fish beautifully elaborated this story and showed off their chops in various, surprising scenes. I also feel as if I was transported into Sabrina's world because some feelings she had about her magical world could be related to my personal experiences. This made it seem more natural and I really loved this feature because it supported me to understand the novel more. I would definitely rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things of this book is that there are many life lessons you can learn from this graphic novel. For example, "accidents can sometimes make huge mistakes", and this happened to Sabrina when she accidentally turned Radka and Ren into half-wendigos. Also, almost every incident she comes upon in the book can be realized as a mistake that we should not repeat in our lives.

8) Book Review (Dawn Of X: Volume 4)

Dawn Of X: Volume 4 is extremely above my expectations! All the heroes of X-Men and other characters (the main protagonists) come together as one group of mutants in an island called Krakoa. With exciting twists and turns, this graphic novel is definitely a page-turning book that makes you sit at the edge of your seat! Will the heroes be triumphant? Will Krakoa fall apart? Read to find out!

This Dawn Of X novel cleverly and clearly portrays the X-Men and rightfully serves as a part of that franchise. I believed the book had a smooth flow since the authors had brought back the X-Men heroes to play their own, significant roles in this series. I felt like I could relate to the X-Men characters I have perused in other comics. Also, the storyline was amazing and so were the unexpected action and stunts! I would definitely rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things about this book is the exact feelings of each character being shown. As a lover of X-Men comics, I could easily recognize Wolverine's or Professor X's emotions in any situation. I realized that this gives a sense of authenticity and makes the story more believable.

9) Book Review (Be More Chill: The Graphic Novel)

Be More Chill: The Graphic novel is a very true and heart-spoken novel about a mediocre high school student Jeremy. Although he desires to be the all-loving, smart boy, he is not able to achieve that. As a result he secretly purchases a Squip ( a nano-technology, supercomputer pill that you drink with Mountain Dew which travels to your brain and gives advice on what to do and when to do it). Will Jeremy be the outstanding, stellar genius? Will he not? Read to find out!

I love how Vizzini adds a sci-fi element to this book. It could have just been a common book: an average, teen boy who flunked his way through high school, and is devastated. Adding the Squip created a more page-turning story that no one had ever perused before. The storyline and twists were also super! I would definitely rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things in this book is how Jeremy interacts with his Squip very naturally, just like what a high schooler would do if he/she had one. During their conversation, there are many mixed emotions such as humor, frustration and sympathy. With these features, it turned a very plain book into an exciting and exhilarating one!

10) Book Review (Batman/Superman: World’s Most Deadliest)

I muttered to myself, "Wow!" as I flipped through the pages of this Batman/Superman book. With its many page-turners and amazing action, it has definitely claimed a spot in my BEST BOOKS TO READ list. It is a very unique idea to picturize Batman and Superman working together and dealing with their enemies, as it does in this graphic novel. Will they defeat their notorious villains? Will Superman and Batman survive together? Read to find out!

I loved all the pages in this great comic book. Everything is very well laid out and it was an excellent storyline to peruse and enjoy. I also loved how the main villain antagonist was made up of both Batman and Superman. It made it look more of a powerful being, knowing all the moves and tricks of both the superheroes. I would definitely rate this novel 5 out of 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things about this book is the idea of Batman and Superman working together. Both of the most famous superheroes in all of the DC multiverse is an ultimate breakthrough, indeed! It is one of the main reasons why this story is very engaging and enticing to read!

11) Book Review (A Spark Within The Forge - “An Ember In The Ashes Graphic Novel”)

A Spark Within The Forge - “An Ember In The Ashes Graphic Novel” by Sabaa Tahir definitely exceeded my expectations. Laia and Darin, who are siblings, live with Nan and Pop after their family was taken away by fighting as a part of the Resistance. They need to survive with their grit and every drop of courage as they embark on journeys, one to save lives and one to be more adventurous, to different districts through routes crowded with Martians, keeping an eye out for anyone to torment. Will the siblings survive the trapped lands of the Scholar district (where they live in)? Will they get caught? Read to find out!

I love the twists and turns through the intriguing plot that Tahir has added to the story. It has an overwhelming burst of imaginable scenes with a delicate tough of mixed emotions present in every character. I believe that this book is brilliantly written with the punches of heroism and bravery in both the main protagonists, Laia and Darin. Also, the challenges and risks In the tasks and events in this book enticed me to keep reading and rejuvenating myself through the heaven strings and oiled mechanisms of the story. Without a doubt, I would rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things of this spectacular book is the naturality of this book. The characters almost seem so real to me, so I can understand the plots and the themes better in the story. Also, some of the events feel as if it happens in the real world, as if I or even others around me could act as the people present in this book, A Spark Within The Forge.

12) Book Review (Artemis Fowl: The Eternity Code (The Graphic Novel))

This book of the Artemis Fowl series blew my mind away! Intricate plots, outstanding narration, and beautiful story-telling were just some of the features that made this graphic novel my cup of tea. The main character, Artemis Fowl, definitely makes the series still alive with his infamous, quick wit and planning. His allies, Butler, Holly (Captain Short), and Mulch are back as well from the previous book with some more action, as well! Now, Artemis has a problem: he needs to deal with Jon Spiro, an infamous criminal. He tries to stop him forever with the support of his comrades. Will he be able to stop the infamous Jon Spiro? Will Artemis fail? Read to find out!

Colfer again proves his brilliant creative creativity with The Eternity Code. This book made me sit at the edge of my seat in various heroic and gripping moments placed excellently throughout it. As wacky as it sounds, Fowl is a criminal for positive deeds. I love that even though he may be a notorious mastermind on the outside, his inside is kind-hearted. Also, I felt that it was a smooth flow from the second book of the series since this feature made it easier to understand Artemis Fowl: The Eternity Code. I would definitely rate this novel 5 out of 5 stars!

13) Book Review (Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong)

Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong” blew my mind away while reading about two, interesting characters. With intertwining many scenes and events, Shen beautifully writes this book. Nate, the usual nerd, wants to attend a robotics tournament in which he tries to win the class election campaign opposing his friend, Charles, the varsity jock. Charles was forced by the cheerleading team to join the campaign due to the lack of funding the team has to buy new dresses. They both need to find ways to receive their funding. Who will win? Will the clubs receive their funding? Read to find out!

The author beautifully captivates the audience into the story and weaves the threads of the storyline into a book. I laughed and glued my eyes on the book throughout the time I was reading it, and what a rollercoaster ride it was! With twists and turns, this book was a massive page-turner, clutching me into an immersive journey through the unbelievable story of Nate and Charlie. I would recommend this book for anyone who just loves a humorous and heart-warming book. I would definitely rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things about this book is the increasing conflict. When the conflicts rose in this story, they enticed me to read more of this story. The careful seasoning of these problems and humor all over the book causes the readers to become more excited and adds the the entertainment and action of the story.

14) Book Review (Scar Island)

This book sent a jolt of electricity down my back. I was mesmerized by the intricate plot of the story, gluing myself onto the book forever. Jonathan and his “Scars” desperately need to free themselves from the horrible school of troubled buys positioned on an island. With the hope for freedom, the boys need to discover a way to escape the disasters and face the secrets bravely. Will the “Scars” succeed? Will they fail? Read to find out!

The author beautifully captivates the audience into the story and weaves the threads of the storyline into a book. I hung my mouth open and became glued my eyes on the book throughout the time I was reading it, and what a rollercoaster ride it was! With twists and turns, this book was a massive page-turner, clutching me into an immersive journey through the adventurous, twisting narration of the heroes’ mission. I would recommend this book for anyone who just loves an action-packed and thrilling book. I would definitely rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things about this book is the increasing conflict. When the conflicts rose in this story, they enticed me to read more of this story. The careful seasoning of these conflicts and action all over the book causes the readers to become more exhilarating and adds the the entertainment and action of the story.

15) Book Review (Ninja: War For The Dominions)

This book sent a jolt of electricity down my back. I was mesmerized by the intricate plot of the story, gluing myself onto the book forever. Ninja and his team desperately needs to free the Dominions (citizens on another planet) from Strigus Thule’s rule and his Great Beasts. With the hope for victory, the heroes need to discover a way to defeat the monster and reveal the secrets to the public. Will Ninja and his group of heroes succeed? Will they fail? Read to find out!

One of the most memorable things about this book is the increasing conflict. When the conflicts rose in this story, they enticed me to read more of this story. The spread of these conflicts and action all over the book causes the readers to become more exhilarating and adds the the entertainment and action of the story.

16) Book Review (All My Friends)

As I perused All My Friends, I was amazed by the depth and storyline of the book. Bina and her bandmates are determined to be one of the top bands in her community, by striding forward even with the hardships trying to push them down. They want to record their own album, and need to raise enough funds while performing a live concert that should captivate the audience and sway them to donate enough money. Will Bina and her bandmates succeed in funding money for concocting their album? Will they fail? Read to find out!

I held my breath for the next event in this page-turner. Larson cleverly weaves the intricate storylines into a beautiful pattern. I was transported into a world of loudness, humor, and determination, while conveying mixed emotions about each character. The strength of the moods and tones in this book solidifies it into a perfect read for anyone who just prefers an enjoyable book. I would definitely rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!

One memorable thing about All My Friends is how each character has a balanced voice in the story. It makes everyone feel equally important in the beautiful evolution intros book filled with ecstasy. It is a key element to note and enjoy when compared to other stories in which only the main protagonist has the stage lights directed towards to him/her.

17) Book Review (Castle In The Stars: The Knights of Mars)

This book blew my mind away . I fixed my eyes on the beautifully, laid-out plot of the story. Seraphin, Hans, and Sophie need to survive the their enemies and try to rescue King Ludwig and Professor Dulac. With the hope for rescue, the heroes need to discover a way escape from the dangerous enemies who try to block them on the way to try to reveal the aetherite, a substance that miraculously defies gravity. Will they succeed and secure the King and the Professor? Will they fail? Read to find out!

The author beautifully captivates the audience into the story and weaves the threads of the storyline into a book. I was immersed into a world of heroism, bravery, and hope. Definitely, with the action-packed events that intertwine together, I was on the edge of my seat on exhilarating conflicts and hardships. I would recommend this book for anyone who just loves a great adventure. Also, I would definitely rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things about this book is the increasing conflict. When the issues and problem came to be more direct, the impact on the heroes are understood thoroughly and is very exciting to view them trying to use cunning tricks up their sleeves to try not to be caught. Thus, the increasing issues add to the enjoyment of the book, and makes it overflowing with action.

18) Book Review (Eighty Days)

This book left me overwhelmed, too astonished to speak. I was captivated by the beautifully-narrated plot of the story. Jay, Fix and Sable need to survive the devastating war and lack of freedom/captivity. With the hope for victory, the heroes need to discover a way escape from the dangerous enemies who try to arrest them. Will they succeed and restore peace into the world? Will they fail? Read to find out!

The author beautifully captivates the audience into the story and weaves the threads of the storyline into a book. I was immersed into a world of flight adventure, bold risks, and friendship. Definitely, with the action-packed events that intertwine together, I was on the edge of my seat on air clashes and being introduced to a whole new era of exhilaration. I recommend this book for anyone who just loves a great adventure. Also, I would definitely rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!

One of the most memorable things about this book is the increasing conflict. When the intensity rose in the story, the events became more interesting and the air rose with threatens wafting throughout. The increasing issues add to the enjoyment of the book.

19) Book Review (83 Days in Mariupol: A War Diary)

83 Days in Mariupol: A War Diary is a story by Don Brown about the resilience of Ukrainian citizens fighting against the Russians at the port city of Mariupol. The brave and heroic collections of these people’s endurance to fight Putin’s hunger for power is truly breathtaking and is beautifully narrated in this story. The book covers sights and narrations of people’s true life experience’s facing hunger and constantly seeking shelter due to heavy bombardment. This story also blends in the bravery of Ukraine soldiers. Even though they were outmatched, they still kept the war lasting, shaming Putin and his army.

I absolutely loved the book! The sketches of the fears of people in such a desolate environment is masterfully drawn and all the scenes portray powerful emotions. This book definitely immerses me into another world, placing me in the war and seeking for a shelter. Don Brown also has conveyed facts with the graphics, concocting an amazing blend of both. I especially loved the various accounts from people enduring through this war.

One memorable thing about 83 Days in Mariupol: A War Diary is the various scenes shown all throughout Mariupol, providing proof to the brutal attacks and crimes committed by Russian soldiers. In these scenes, heroism, bravery, and determination by the Ukrainian army and citizens bleeds through in amazing detail. This panoramic view of Mariupol as a whole helps me to connect and let myself read the book with the same emotions as it conveyed.

20) Book Review (We’ll Never Tell)

We’ll Never Tell is an exquisite narration by Wendy Heard about four teenagers (Casey, Jacob, Eddie, Zoe) and their mission to end their YouTube Channel (hint at the title for the name) with a big bang by breaking into the Valentini murder mansion. While on their mission, the team faces an unexpected attack, and has to be secretive about their future plans. The book is both narrated by Casey and Jacob, their stories mushing together to create the mystery that resolves around the secrets. Not being able to trust anybody, the friends have to discover who committed the murder before it is too late. Throughout the secret relationships, broken trusts, and drama, this story artistically covers how protagonists try to break out of their invisible “prison” and worst nightmare.

I definitely enjoyed this story, especially the parts where Jacob shares his story, which mystifies the plot to a further context. Also, I love how Heard made the story sound more realistic form a teenager’s point of view, which allows me to connect to some events in the book. Overall, this read was quite the page-turner. The introduction of more characters in an intelligent way increases the suspicions, and it is almost impossible to realize who the culprit is. Also, the emotions that were expressed in the story by each character is fascinating, especially how detailed they are. These tiny additions that are carefully placed in every corner of the story add more of an effect, immersing me into the story of Casey, Jacob, Eddie, and Zoe.

One memorable thing about We’ll Never Tell is the two-person point of view in the story. Both Casey and Jacob narrate the story, each person providing valuable insights about their discoveries and relationships. Both the narrations piecing together only provide a narration as memorable as this book.

21) Book Review (Project Nought)

Project Nought is an amazing graphic novel by Chelsey Furedi about a time-travel project that transports students from older timelines to the present world (2122). Yet, the company that conducts these activities, Chronotech, may not seem the way they appear in public. To unravel the mysteries the Ren, a time-travel subject, teams up with his friends Mars, Phoebe, and Jia. By realizing schooling aspects of the truth on the way, the gang is on a vital mission. Going rogue, these friends try to the other time-travel subjects before it is too late.

Personally, I thought the book was phenomenal. The apt pictures with the dialogue, and the various relationships between the characters cause an abundance of twists in the story. Also, the emotions conveyed by all the characters are very pragmatic, immersing me into the world of Project Nought. The story also causeed me to follow along with Ren and observe his thoughts while also being transported to other scenes. This especially crafts a beautiful web of the various actions that shape this story as a whole.

One memorable thing about Project Nought is the evolution of maturity within Ren. As he navigates the various challenges before him, he gains a deeper understanding of himself and his past life. He realizes how to deal with the physical, but also mental challenges. He utilizes these AHA! Moments to think more meticulously about his actions.

22) Book Review (Other Boys)

Other Boys is a a stellar work by Damian Alexander about the author’s childhood conveyed in a graphic novel. He faces the various bullies throughout his life, especially in the story’s primary time period: 7th grade. Since his mother was killed by his father when he was young and his sisters moved away, he, his brother, and grandparents, who had to make ends meet for the children. By facing one calamity after another, Damian navigates through his struggling life, mostly by not talking at any time throughout 7th grade. On the way, he learns the true secret on how he feels around other classmates, and later, realizes how he is not “weird” as he thought he was.

I believe the book was great. The narration about Damian and his thoughts about his life are very heart-touching. The book definitely immerses me into his world. I was almost faced with the same conflicts as he is after perusing the various graphic panels of the book. Also, I believed the book was a story that can apply to anyone. By learning about himself, Damian perservered through his life, which was a source of great motivation for me.

One memorable thing about Other Boys is the communication of feelings of the various characters in the story. Not just Damian, but the other characters’ expressions and dialogue seemed very real to me. This causes the story to be very emotional with the the roller-coaster of events that occur throughout it.

23) Book Review (Coming Back)

Coming Back is a a stellar work by Jessi Zabarsky is a beautiful graphic novel about the story of Preet and Valissa who live in a magical community. The pair always supports each other in times of crisis, but when a mysterious problem arouses in their village, Valissa volunteers to solve the issue. Meanwhile, Preet, being a “Pillar” (someone in an elite magical force in their community), has committed an act that violates their community rules (adopting a a “seedling child”). Throughout their parallel journeys, they learn the true bond of love and affection for each other. By uncovering secrets, the duo seeks to teach readers like me about the true meaning of “coming back.”

I thought the book was absolutely phenomenal. The artwork definitely peaked my interests, but the realistically portrayals of the various characters definitely brought the whole book to life. Also, the suspense that is built up throughout the book is amazing. These tiny details immersed me into the book. Also, I loved how there were many hidden themes throughout the various scenes in this book, such as friendship, perseverance, and betrayal.

One memorable thing about Coming Back is the Zabarsky’s ability to not write a single word and still express all the emotions for all the characters in just one panel. Countless panels in the book do not have words, yet they are masterfully and meticulously weaved together to create the thread of this story. Through the mix of these pictures and a few sentences on some, the book is more intriguing to peruse.

24) Book Review (Nayra and the Djinn)

Nayra and the Djinn is a phenomenal book by Yasmin Omar Ata that encompasses the story of a Muslim girl trying to evade bullying and the hurdles in her life, and a djinn, almost with the same story, but in another universe. These two characters parallely meet together, resulting in learning experiences for both of them. They solve problems together and try to make amends for their mistakes. In Nayra’s (the girl’s) story, she and her friend Rami have to try to piece back their relationship, along building a stronger relationship with Nayra’s family. In Marjan’s (the jinn’s) story, they have to try to make their friend Zirkouniya come back to clarity on the issue at hand.

I thought the book was page-turning. The parallelism of both the main characters’ story being similar, yet so different, is truly a magnificent work by Ata. Also, the characters are very realistic and their experiences could relate to some of what I have experienced before. Also, I loved the moments where Marjan is trying to advise Nayra on bonding closely with her friends and family. She is trying to explain to Nayra how to not repeat the same mistakes in her life.

One memorable thing about Nayra and the Djinn is to successfully combine a realistic and mythical story together. Sometimes, stories may sound too fictional or too unrealistic when this occurs. Yet, Ata was able to pull it off without a single fault, which resulted in a much better outcome, rather than just a plain story about a normal girl.