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Reading age
9-13
Genre
Realistic fiction
Publisher
Aladdin
Publication date
February 27, 2024
Lyla has always imagined herself as a writer. She already has a beautiful and amazing story in her mind, and her ELA teacher is starting a creative writing unit where she has 10 minutes of class a day to write her story. However, she’s facing a problem – she can’t get her story on paper. She is experiencing severe writer’s block. On top of this, her friend Rania is moving on from Lyla and hanging out with people who seem to despise her. Meanwhile, her sister Dahlia argues with her mom daily about a college essay, even though she doesn’t want to attend college.
The story’s plot was absolutely captivating. As I turned the final page, I was overwhelmed with melancholy, as if bidding farewell to a dear friend. I never expected to encounter a narrative told from the perspective of a character struggling with writer’s block; the irony of it struck me deeply. What truly elevates this story is its relatability. As someone who has grappled with writer’s block numerous times, I found myself nodding in agreement with the character’s struggles.
Lyla, a complex figure yearning for a sense of uniqueness and companionship while battling feelings of inadequacy, is incredibly well-drawn. On the other hand, Rania comes across as grating and unsupportive, failing to embody the qualities of a true friend.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to those who appreciate a nuanced and imaginative portrayal of a middle school girl navigating through life’s challenges.
My rating
