Christina

A great personal overview and introduction for a layperson into some of the most recognizable dishes in west African cuisine. I especially appreciated the author's personal context around the dishes- this recipe is for Sundays when there is time, this spice mix is unique to her family, etc. Very good, and recommended.

I especially appreciated the representation of the concerns of the protagonist, as far as the practicality of her speech with others.

I am a manga baby, so I haven't yet acclimated to a romantic lead just ruffling her hair all the time before they know each other.

By stating the completely obvious, yet.... lost... situations that constitute hanging out, the author emphasizes what has been taken from us by the attention or lack thereof of digital media. I come away from it wanting to make connections with people in real life, and while I'm still afraid of doing so, I'm going to extend myself a lot of grace in trying, thanks to this book.

A major plot point is forced insemination, and not enough is done to acknowledge that. Not a fan.

Trigger warnings: Rape, Child death, abuse

I saw a lot of my formative years in this book. It horrified me to realize. Made me grateful that I didn't double down on that path, when some of my extended family did.