Pages: 249 pages
Published: August 2019
Someone in one of my Facebook bookish groups recommended I'm Not Dying with You Tonight — a fast-paced, young adult novel about two girls of different races with different perspectives who must depend on one another in an attempt to survive a chaotic night after a riot occurs at the local football game of the high school they both attend. The book is loosely based on the real-life aftermath of the killing of Freddie Gray in Baltimore. It was co-written by Kimberly Jones, an African American, and Gilly Segal, a White American. As mothers they decided to collaborate on the now published debut.
I think the authors did a great job of creating suspense and an authentic environment in the novel. I like how they both drew from their personal perspectives to reflect them in their art. The descriptions of each scene were very clear to me as the reader. I didn't really enjoy the over characterization of Lena's character. I think it played into stereotypes of African Americans, which maybe could distract the reader from the true purpose of the book's themes. I also think some of the other characters could have been more developed to provide a fuller, more complete novel.
Recommendation: Overall, I did enjoy this timely, young adult novel that people of all ages can appreciate it. It is very fast-paced and can probably be finished in one sitting for most readers. Go grab a copy today, or if you have access to Hoopla, it's always available for an eBorrow.
Until next time ... Read on!
Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.
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