American Street

by Ibi Zoboi

[Leigha]

A Haitian immigrant is torn between multiple crossroads in this bittersweet young adult contemporary novel.

This is a really hard review for me to write. Overall, I enjoyed reading this book. It brings an important perspective to the young adult genre. It features a POC main character, Fabiola Toussaint, struggling with immigration, gang violence, and abuse against women. Fabiola is a likable narrator, full of conviction and heart. Her Vodou faith centers her. It's one of the best representations of a faith-driven character not associated with Christianity.

Zoboi brings alive the Detroit inner-city, particularly her description of Joy Road and American Street. I felt very present in each and every moment. Fabiola's Haitian heritage and Vodou beliefs juxtapose interestingly against the American culture exhibited by her cousins and friends. The ending is absolutely perfect considering the plot set into motion.

However, this book contains a LOT of hate and violence against other women. Fabiola's cousins and friends are constantly making hateful remarks against other women, even if unprovoked. Now, I'm aware we do not live in a utopia where women, particularly teenage girls, only build each other up. But I was kinda surprised at the vitriol these girls would have for other girls. If you choose to read this book, be prepared for women against women hate.

tl;dr A unique perspective on the immigration experience with a likeable narrator and a bittersweet ending.