A review by bookmarkedbybecky
The Search for Us by Susan Azim Boyer
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
The Search For Us tackles heavy topics for YA: biracial experience, an array of mental health issues, living with an autoimmune disability, adoption, issues of abandonment, and alcohol dependency and codependency. That seems like a lot, but Susan Azim Boyer’s writing is entirely captivating, that each topic feels realistic in the family-centric storyline. In fact, the mystery behind the missing father kept me saying, “One more chapter” as the clock ticked closer to midnight - way past my bedtime - giving way to a satisfying yet realistic ending.
What I loved:
🧬Great representation: the diverse cast includes Iranian Americans, Vietnamese girlfriend, bisexual best friend, Black best friend, biracial, and adopted characters
🧬Persian culture: woven beautifully with food and Farsi. I want to go to my favorite Middle Eastern restaurant ASAP! #PitaInn
🧬Teen Pressures: college, family, financial - I love that SAB explores how differently families approach these topics.
🧬Hockey storyline for Henry: as a hockey fan and hockey mom, SAB nails this storyline.
What I loved:
🧬Great representation: the diverse cast includes Iranian Americans, Vietnamese girlfriend, bisexual best friend, Black best friend, biracial, and adopted characters
🧬Persian culture: woven beautifully with food and Farsi. I want to go to my favorite Middle Eastern restaurant ASAP! #PitaInn
🧬Teen Pressures: college, family, financial - I love that SAB explores how differently families approach these topics.
🧬Hockey storyline for Henry: as a hockey fan and hockey mom, SAB nails this storyline.