Reviews

Keisha the Sket by Jade LB

ejones_'s review

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5.0

10/10!! I love how the first part is written exactly how it was initially published, word for word bar for bar. The extended version is fantastic and provided long awaited clarity considering how abruptly it ended circa 2008. I also thoroughly enjoyed the authors notes. Reading this made me so happy

sophmrtn's review

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challenging emotional funny reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

Nostalgic with interesting discourse

therealdilsey's review

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5.0

I never got to read this in school as I was just a few years too young when it came out, however, I have always been very aware of its popularity.

Reading the original took me way back, to a place so nostalgic and so familiar in terms of lingo and environment, I was instantly at home in this story. Then reading the re-written version offered a much more refined and put-together story that flowed a bit better.

The topics and events in this book are very heavy, some almost seemingly brushed off by Keisha, effectively showcasing her naivety. I can’t even begin to go into detail as it will end up being a full essay but the story was captivating, page-turning and, for some people, eye-opening. I can’t say I agree with most of the things Keisha does, but other details such as her relationship with her mother, her choice in men and her beliefs about sex all play a huge part in every decision she makes.

The essays at the end of the story are a beautiful addition, offering insight into different topics and other points of view, wrapping the whole thing up into one entertaining bundle.

For those looking to learn more about the noughties,how society continues to affect our youth (especially our young Black teens and their environments) and a peek into their realities, then this is the read for you.

thelifetimemuse's review against another edition

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challenging emotional sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0


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sllewis4's review

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fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.75

juiceyb79's review

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5.0

6 fricking stars ⭐️

This book was so unexpected. I think I stumbled across this when listening to. Podcast and was like Keisha who? And instantly added this to my TBR.

This just makes me think of London and growing up. Granted I was active at that age but this book just resonates with what some black girls in those areas of London must have gone through (South East and East in particular).

I think I’m going to have to re-read the book to get the fullest experience of this.

Just Wow.

tildaholly's review

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5.0

It was great to revisit Keisha as an adult after so many years! The OG text is some great nostalgia, and although I was sceptical, I enjoyed the ending Keisha finally got in Keisha Revisited.

ayeesharbrts's review

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dark emotional funny reflective fast-paced
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

bobbielb's review

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emotional funny informative inspiring reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

unique_polarizer's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

This was a beautiful, compelling read. It embraces black girls and women all round. I feel heard, recognised and seen. It's riveting how Jade is not afraid of portraying the truth. You're not supposed to be comfortable but understand this reality for what it is. For the joys, the pain, the expressions of what it means to be a black British girl exploring the world around her, sexuality and being free within herself to make her mark on the world and all.

I thank Jade for the essays and conversations contributed in the book that envelope the story in between. It really highlights the importance of black girls and women. It reminds us of our worth, our brilliance and our excellence. Keisha reclaims her autonomy, her sexual freedom, her freedom and control to live her life even after everything. She owns a name used to put her down. It's inspiring and honest. 

Thanks!

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