A review by wordsbetweenlines
A Very Large Expanse of Sea by Tahereh Mafi

challenging dark emotional hopeful tense 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? It's complicated

4.5

Set in 2002, our main character is a Muslim female in America. One year after 9/11. She proudly wears a Hijab and this story follows along with how she is treated. 

I completely felt how autobiographical this was, it felt real. You can tell it’s based off of personal experiences and that only enhances the story.

I think the representation in this book is incredible and could feel like a lifeline to the communities it represents. Beautiful and heartbreaking  as it reminds us of how far we still have to go. 

On top of all of that, the characters and storyline are very compelling.