[usr 4]
I listened to this on audio and really enjoyed it. It was an easy listen, so vibrant. I almost think if I would have read it maybe I wouldn't have truly appreciated it as much as listening to it. Elizabeth Acevedo's writing style is so lovely. It's very easy to imagine the characters to life. While this book deals with very heavy topics, teenage pregnancy, being single mother, absentee-ish father, a mother who passed away, money struggles, it's not a heavy or depressing read at all. It's full of joy, creativity, love and friendship. Emoni is a teenage mother still growing into herself. She's surrounded by a loving grandmother and best friend. I loved following her journey of growth and discovering where her cooking abilities can take her in life.