A review by sandysmith
My Name is Maame by Jessica George

emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective sad 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

4.5

A great book, the central character Maddie, has Ghanaian heritage. It is a coming of age story, and her development is funny and sad. She's caught between cultures. She is called Maame, meaning woman which she is from an early age. She is selfless caring for her dad, with little to no help, and he has deteriorating Parkinsons. Her mother is absent in Ghana for a great part of childhood and her brother who rarely sees her or his dad. Her mother returns back to the UK, so Maddie leaves home for the first time. Google is her trusted friend. It's about relationships, friendships, family, and deals with all sorts of differing issues, racism, sexuality, grief, and social commentary. It is beautifully written, sad, funny, awkward, painful, poignant, heartwarming, moving cracker of a read. I cant believe its a debut book. Love it.
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