What do you think?
Rate this book
Our Shouts Echo
Survival Tip #1: The world is going to shit. Whatever you do, trust no one.
Sixteen-year old Niarah Holloway’s only goal in life is to get through it unnoticed. That, and to spend her first summer in LA building a doomsday bunker in her backyard. Because if the past few years have taught Niarah anything, it’s that the ocean levels are rising, minimum wage is a scam, and the people who are supposed to protect you will hurt you. Now the only thing that helps Niarah stay afloat amidst the constant waves of anxiety and dread that threaten to drag her under is her new mantra: Be prepared.
But Niarah wasn’t prepared for Mac Torres. Not for his disarmingly cute face, or for his surfer lifestyle, or for the way his smile resuscitates her heart. Mac is a bomb that blows Niarah’s world to pieces, but instead of disaster, he fills it with sunset bonfires, breakfast burritos, and new friends.
For years, Niarah’s life has revolved around ignoring the demons of her past, avoiding the problems of her present, and preparing for the catastrophes of the future. Now Mac—with his sunshine laugh and infectious optimism— is determined to show her another way to be. But in a world where the worst feels inevitable, can one summer be enough to light the way to a hopeful future? Can one summer be enough to fall in love?
Sixteen-year old Niarah Holloway’s only goal in life is to get through it unnoticed. That, and to spend her first summer in LA building a doomsday bunker in her backyard. Because if the past few years have taught Niarah anything, it’s that the ocean levels are rising, minimum wage is a scam, and the people who are supposed to protect you will hurt you. Now the only thing that helps Niarah stay afloat amidst the constant waves of anxiety and dread that threaten to drag her under is her new mantra: Be prepared.
But Niarah wasn’t prepared for Mac Torres. Not for his disarmingly cute face, or for his surfer lifestyle, or for the way his smile resuscitates her heart. Mac is a bomb that blows Niarah’s world to pieces, but instead of disaster, he fills it with sunset bonfires, breakfast burritos, and new friends.
For years, Niarah’s life has revolved around ignoring the demons of her past, avoiding the problems of her present, and preparing for the catastrophes of the future. Now Mac—with his sunshine laugh and infectious optimism— is determined to show her another way to be. But in a world where the worst feels inevitable, can one summer be enough to light the way to a hopeful future? Can one summer be enough to fall in love?
Hardcover
First published August 27, 2024
16 people are currently reading
984 people want to read
About the author
Jade Adia
3 books122 followersBorn and raised in Los Angeles, Jade Adia writes stories about Black nerds, anti-capitalism, and home. She is an English teacher at a middle and high school where her students graciously keep her grounded. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Ethnicity, Race & Migration as well as a law degree with a specialization in Critical Race Studies. Her debut novel, There Goes The Neighborhood, won the 2024 Coretta Scott King - John Steptoe Award for New Talent. Her other novels include Our Shouts Echo and Batgirl: Possession.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 18, 2024
Maybe the real apocalypse was the friends we made along the way
Thanks to the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for this honest review!
readability: very good (engaging and easy)
enjoyability: good (tackles heavy topics, but has a fun, snarky voice and plenty of lighter scenes)
craft: good (first person with lots of characterization and a strong voice)
In Our Shouts Echo, recent sophomore not-quite-graduate and paranoid doomsday prepper Niarah has to join an environmental/hiking group for POC. Forced into her grass-touching era, she unexpectedly makes friends (perhaps even...more than friends) and very expectedly makes a doomsday shelter (with some help from said friends.)
But like, that summary (and every other summary) makes this book sound lamer than it is. It's not lame! It touches on lots of Issues and uses occasional Twitter therapyspeak, but it does so in a thoughtful and realistic way (and it's true to how lots of Very Online Gen Z folks actually talk.)
My stray observations include "the little doodles and notes and epistolary elements are so fun" (I wonder how they'll look in the published version!) and that I like Niarah’s voice and backstory (important in such a character-driven story.) Her prepper-ism is a genuine reaction to past trauma rooted in real concern for the state of the world, and the narrative itself never treats her like a punchline for it. Every time she opened her mouth I was like no, let her cook. It all made total sense to me to the point where I was like damn, should I get some iodine tablets too? This book's framing of its POV character reminds me very much of that Jiddu Krishnamurti quote about how being well-adjusted in a sick society is not a sign of health. I appreciated that approach!
In general, I'd describe OSE as more therapeutic than cathartic, and something you have to meet on its level and be in the right mood for (the mood to allow yourself to feel hope.) If read in the wrong mood, I could see it coming across on the pithy side, but in the right mood it's genuine and gentle. If I had a teenager I wouldn't hesitate to give them this.
rejected review title: “noooo don’t kill yourselfyou’re nature is so sexy aha”
Thanks to the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for this honest review!
readability: very good (engaging and easy)
enjoyability: good (tackles heavy topics, but has a fun, snarky voice and plenty of lighter scenes)
craft: good (first person with lots of characterization and a strong voice)
In Our Shouts Echo, recent sophomore not-quite-graduate and paranoid doomsday prepper Niarah has to join an environmental/hiking group for POC. Forced into her grass-touching era, she unexpectedly makes friends (perhaps even...more than friends) and very expectedly makes a doomsday shelter (with some help from said friends.)
But like, that summary (and every other summary) makes this book sound lamer than it is. It's not lame! It touches on lots of Issues and uses occasional Twitter therapyspeak, but it does so in a thoughtful and realistic way (and it's true to how lots of Very Online Gen Z folks actually talk.)
My stray observations include "the little doodles and notes and epistolary elements are so fun" (I wonder how they'll look in the published version!) and that I like Niarah’s voice and backstory (important in such a character-driven story.) Her prepper-ism is a genuine reaction to past trauma rooted in real concern for the state of the world, and the narrative itself never treats her like a punchline for it. Every time she opened her mouth I was like no, let her cook. It all made total sense to me to the point where I was like damn, should I get some iodine tablets too? This book's framing of its POV character reminds me very much of that Jiddu Krishnamurti quote about how being well-adjusted in a sick society is not a sign of health. I appreciated that approach!
In general, I'd describe OSE as more therapeutic than cathartic, and something you have to meet on its level and be in the right mood for (the mood to allow yourself to feel hope.) If read in the wrong mood, I could see it coming across on the pithy side, but in the right mood it's genuine and gentle. If I had a teenager I wouldn't hesitate to give them this.
rejected review title: “noooo don’t kill yourself
September 14, 2024
Dnf on page 340
I just cannot get into this writing style anymore
I really would have liked this and this was just a book about you know living life surviving and just camp doing not a romance NOT EVERYTHING HAS TO BE ROMANCE GUYS
I thank you guys for the ark though, but I just can't with this one
I just cannot get into this writing style anymore
I really would have liked this and this was just a book about you know living life surviving and just camp doing not a romance NOT EVERYTHING HAS TO BE ROMANCE GUYS
I thank you guys for the ark though, but I just can't with this one
October 17, 2024
Had to sit on this one a few days. Overall I liked it but the father drama was kind of boring. The survivalist response though was fresh. Sort of wanted more of the brother also. The chemistry between the main character and the love interest felt a little forced also but all the characters on their own were great.
February 8, 2025
Loved this book! The writing style drew me in, and the way the chapters were structured made for such an engaging read. The characters had so much depth, each one feeling layered and real. And the one-liners—so many of them read like poetry, sticking with me long after I turned the last page. This is a book that lingers in the best way. Highly recommend!
September 2, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up because I was bawling by the end.
I really enjoyed Jade Adia's first book, There Goes the Neighborhood, about neighborhood gentrification, fighting racism, the savior complex, and so much more. However, I didn't initially like the main character in that book, so it took longer for me to empathize with her.
This book drew me in immediately, and while Niarah was a character that I connected with from the beginning. While her teacher Mx. Ferrante appeared in person only at the beginning of the story, Niarah's assignment was to write a capstone project which was addressed to Mx. Ferrante and her only reasons for doing what she did throughout the summer was because of the assignment given to her by Ferrante. For that reason, they were a pivotal part of Niarah's journey.
This was a story about trauma and mental illness, and while the trauma that Niarah experienced may have been a trigger for her mental illness, I like the way the author tackled her mental illness as much more complex than a simple trigger. I felt the author did an amazing job taking us through Niarah's summer as we heard all the things that went through her head and that caused her to react the way she did. But what I absolutely loved about this book was the friendship between Mac, Sage, and Andrew (and their families) and how they eventually drew Niarah into their circle.
The book tackles so many issues that teens might be fearful about, including climate change, natural disasters not directly linked to climate change, wars, environmental poisons as a result of human irresponsibility, depression, suicide, abuse, even bullying. But the author manages to skirt that fine line between normalizing it and calling it out as legit concerns but learning how to not let it rule your life. I loved the discussions Niarah had with Mac especially, but also with Ox and others. There were many memorable quotes and I wish I had highlighted them, but I didn't think about doing that until I was near the end! But a couple of them stand out:
"What if endings, true endings, don't really exist? ... What if we let go of the ide of finite endings, and instead thought about transformations?
"I am both the happiest and the saddest I have ever been."
I think this just means I need to reread this book!
I would recommend this to any teen who enjoys realistic fiction with some content warnings about depression and suicidal ideation, as well as mention of physical abuse and instances of bullying.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed Jade Adia's first book, There Goes the Neighborhood, about neighborhood gentrification, fighting racism, the savior complex, and so much more. However, I didn't initially like the main character in that book, so it took longer for me to empathize with her.
This book drew me in immediately, and while Niarah was a character that I connected with from the beginning. While her teacher Mx. Ferrante appeared in person only at the beginning of the story, Niarah's assignment was to write a capstone project which was addressed to Mx. Ferrante and her only reasons for doing what she did throughout the summer was because of the assignment given to her by Ferrante. For that reason, they were a pivotal part of Niarah's journey.
This was a story about trauma and mental illness, and while the trauma that Niarah experienced may have been a trigger for her mental illness, I like the way the author tackled her mental illness as much more complex than a simple trigger. I felt the author did an amazing job taking us through Niarah's summer as we heard all the things that went through her head and that caused her to react the way she did. But what I absolutely loved about this book was the friendship between Mac, Sage, and Andrew (and their families) and how they eventually drew Niarah into their circle.
The book tackles so many issues that teens might be fearful about, including climate change, natural disasters not directly linked to climate change, wars, environmental poisons as a result of human irresponsibility, depression, suicide, abuse, even bullying. But the author manages to skirt that fine line between normalizing it and calling it out as legit concerns but learning how to not let it rule your life. I loved the discussions Niarah had with Mac especially, but also with Ox and others. There were many memorable quotes and I wish I had highlighted them, but I didn't think about doing that until I was near the end! But a couple of them stand out:
"What if endings, true endings, don't really exist? ... What if we let go of the ide of finite endings, and instead thought about transformations?
"I am both the happiest and the saddest I have ever been."
I think this just means I need to reread this book!
I would recommend this to any teen who enjoys realistic fiction with some content warnings about depression and suicidal ideation, as well as mention of physical abuse and instances of bullying.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 24, 2024
I’d like to thank the publisher for providing this ARC for an honest review. Our Shouts Echo introduces us to Niarah, the physical embodiment of those nihilistic tumblr posts that constantly assure you your feelings are valid but remind you that no one else cares about them. In fact, Niarah is probably the type to make those posts, and I get it, and I support her. Whatever eases the agonies, girly.
Our Shouts Echo tackles topics that sit heavy in the minds of many young people—climate change, the effects of capitalism, natural disasters, and bullies with audiences that validate each nasty act are prevalent throughout the story, providing a harrowing look at the reality that teenagers are currently facing. When the threat of repeating Sophomore year presents itself, Niarah finds herself surrounded by a group of cool upperclassmen that find her attitude more charming than off-putting, and is swept into a summer where she’ll do whatever it takes to stay on task. She’ll complete her doomsday bunker, and survive a summer of physical activity with a side of homework, or she’ll die trying. Although sometimes, the “die trying” part doesn’t feel like too much of a bad thing for Niarah.
This book speaks to the eternal question, “why does any of it matter” with a loud and resounding, “the world is a beautiful place” paired with a “get loved, idiot.” The book itself feels like a less-than-gentle reminder to the hopeless youth of today that love is not useless, hope is not silly, and yes, sunlight, exercise, social interaction, and drinking water really will help your mental health. (Sorry to restate such tragic news to local online teenage nihilists.)
I give Our Shouts Echo 4 stars for how readable it is, paired with a cast of characters that are enjoyable to read about. The struggles they face speak to a realistic 2024 experience, and I delight in the idea of modern day teenagers finding this book when they need it the most. If I were in the intended audience for this story, I could see 16-year-old Shannon giving this an easy 5 stars.
Our Shouts Echo tackles topics that sit heavy in the minds of many young people—climate change, the effects of capitalism, natural disasters, and bullies with audiences that validate each nasty act are prevalent throughout the story, providing a harrowing look at the reality that teenagers are currently facing. When the threat of repeating Sophomore year presents itself, Niarah finds herself surrounded by a group of cool upperclassmen that find her attitude more charming than off-putting, and is swept into a summer where she’ll do whatever it takes to stay on task. She’ll complete her doomsday bunker, and survive a summer of physical activity with a side of homework, or she’ll die trying. Although sometimes, the “die trying” part doesn’t feel like too much of a bad thing for Niarah.
This book speaks to the eternal question, “why does any of it matter” with a loud and resounding, “the world is a beautiful place” paired with a “get loved, idiot.” The book itself feels like a less-than-gentle reminder to the hopeless youth of today that love is not useless, hope is not silly, and yes, sunlight, exercise, social interaction, and drinking water really will help your mental health. (Sorry to restate such tragic news to local online teenage nihilists.)
I give Our Shouts Echo 4 stars for how readable it is, paired with a cast of characters that are enjoyable to read about. The struggles they face speak to a realistic 2024 experience, and I delight in the idea of modern day teenagers finding this book when they need it the most. If I were in the intended audience for this story, I could see 16-year-old Shannon giving this an easy 5 stars.
April 10, 2025
Doomsday Prepper high school sophomore because of her dad sucking (I'm still not clear why she doesn't talk to him?) joins an outdoor club when she's about to fail the school year and falls in love reluctantly with a head-over-heels-for-her-two-seconds-in graduating senior.
Read by Tyla Collier. #booksin25
Read by Tyla Collier. #booksin25
February 5, 2025
Loved this story, writing style, characters, everything. It also might have played a part in inspiring me to prep my own bug out bag, just in case! I’ll be looking into more titles by Jade Adia for sure :)
September 20, 2024
What a beautifully written book! I loved every minute.
September 5, 2024
4,5*
Ein ganz besonderes Jugendbuch, das manchmal gar nicht so einfach zu verdauen war. Der Schreibstil war unfassbar gut und ich will unbedingt noch mehr von Jade Adia lesen.
Ein ganz besonderes Jugendbuch, das manchmal gar nicht so einfach zu verdauen war. Der Schreibstil war unfassbar gut und ich will unbedingt noch mehr von Jade Adia lesen.
April 24, 2024
What an honor to go on Niarah's journey. We get to bear witness to her realizations that the world is so much bigger, that her relationships are so much richer. Jade Adia crafts Niarah's end of the world terror in an earnest way that doesn't glorify or freak out the reader. I deeply appreciate her commitment to showing mental illness with such tenderness. Thanks to NetGalley and Disney-Hyperion for an early read in exchange for my honest review.
October 12, 2024
I could not put this book down. It’s an incredibly honest and captivating story about love, friendship, and hope. It’s impossible not to feel connected to Niarah and her struggles even if you’re not a doomsday prepper. I have yet to read a novel that captures the feelings of suicidal ideation in a more real and respectful manner. This book gave me hope and reminded me yet again why I choose life every day, and that leaning on our people is the only way to survive, or rather, live. Another 5 stars for Jade Adia, please keep writing.
August 28, 2024
Even though she's not much of a toucher, I want to give Niarah the BIGGEST LONGEST hug ever.
***FULL REVIEW TO COME WHEN I'VE GATHERED MY THOUGHTS****
So here's the deal, sweet reading public. If you've been around a while, you might remember that in 2022, I had the privilege and DELIGHT of getting to read a VERY early manuscript of Jade Adia's debut "There Goes the Neighborhood" for the ABA's Indies Introduce selection committee. I even got to meet Jade at Winter Institute in 2023 and celebrate the release of her incredible novel -- a whip-smart YA murder-mystery/indictment of gentrification/love letter to South LA!
Jade's second book, "Our Shouts Echo," releases this August. I finished it this morning. I then basically went back and re-read the whole thing because I'd highlighted SO MANY PASSAGES! It's about a teen with depression -- portrayed so. accurately. (Jade, I didn't know you're part of the Sad Kid Club too. Thank you for choosing to stay in this world) -- who doesn't see the point in planning for the future anymore, since the world is literally on fire and everything is the worst. It's also a summer romance! And a scathing commentary on capitalism! And it's got hiking and surfing and a foodie bestie and a doomsday bunker and a floofy lil white doggo named Bruce who wears a Batman cape. Plus Arrested Development and 10 Things I Hate About You references.
I don't hand out five-star reviews lightly. And yet BOTH of Jade's books are absolutely 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.
"Our Shouts Echo" is going to be echoing through my head for a long, long time. Preorder your copy from Sower, or head over to Jade's local POC-owned indies Octavia's Bookshelf, Reparations Club, or Casita Bookstore for signed copies plus limited-edition stickers! (I'm ordering mine as we speak!)
When am I going to stop being a die-hard Jade Adia fangirl?! When she stops pushing out GODDAMN FIVE-STAR BANGERS, that's when! This is two in a row from her and I will follow her to the ends of the earth.
there are indeed echoes of Octavia Butler/Parable of the Sower
pleasure activism
I don't think I've highlighted this many passages in a book....EVER.
"I'm starting to think that who I am today has more in common with who I'll be in the future than who I've been in the past."
"Mac's looking at me as if I'm in the middle of a mental breakdown. But I'm actually experiencing the opposite -- a mental breakupward? Is that a thing? A moment of hysterical joy and freedom that cracks open something inside of you and brings your spirit higher and higher?"
"...a pair of insanely dorky yet functional hiking pants that zip off at the knees and convert into shorts, even though I'm certain that I will never take advantage of that feature. Although I imagine that somewhere in Utah, there's a middle-aged white man out in the woods, absolutely psyched to convert his hiking pants into shorts...." YOU HATE TO SEE IT 😂😂😂😂😂
"'Well, what if endings, true endings, don't really exist?' Mac interjects. He catches my gaze and holds it steady. 'What if we let go of the idea of finite endings, and instead thought about transformations? Like, what if everything that we currently call an ending is actually just transforming to the next form? We night not know what exactly the next form is, but we don't need to understand it to think of it as changing into something else.'" MY GIRL'S BEEN READING OCTAVIA, CALLIN IT RN
"'The world is harsh. Sometimes we gotta dissociate to soften the blows. But I can't, like, live in that constant state forever. The goal is balance, or whatever. I don't know. I'm tryna figure my shit out, man.'" why u gotta @ me like that
"I crawl into a ball beneath the covers, my voice barely a whisper. 'I can't tell you how much it hurts.'
I hear a sniffle up above. 'That's okay.' A wipe of the nose. A shaky exhale. 'I'm glad you told someone that it hurts at all.'"
"...It scared her how much she wanted to live. So, when the dust settled, she didn't keep her fear a secret this time. Her people kept her safe. Life in ruins is still life. The sky may fall one day, but how beautiful it is to hold and be held in the meantime."
"What a brilliant, twisted miracle it is to survive oneself."
"It's work. Real work to choose to stay here. [...] If you're reading this, sometime in the future, that means that you're still doing it -- still choosing. And for that, I thank you. [...]
Until the next transformation, our job is simple: Be here now.
The world is always ending. We stay in love."
So here's the deal, sweet reading public. If you've been around a while, you might remember that in 2022, I had the privilege and DELIGHT of getting to read a VERY early manuscript of Jade Adia's debut "There Goes the Neighborhood" for the ABA's Indies Introduce selection committee. I even got to meet Jade at Winter Institute in 2023 and celebrate the release of her incredible novel -- a whip-smart YA murder-mystery/indictment of gentrification/love letter to South LA!
Jade's second book, "Our Shouts Echo," releases this August. I finished it this morning. I then basically went back and re-read the whole thing because I'd highlighted SO MANY PASSAGES! It's about a teen with depression -- portrayed so. accurately. (Jade, I didn't know you're part of the Sad Kid Club too. Thank you for choosing to stay in this world) -- who doesn't see the point in planning for the future anymore, since the world is literally on fire and everything is the worst. It's also a summer romance! And a scathing commentary on capitalism! And it's got hiking and surfing and a foodie bestie and a doomsday bunker and a floofy lil white doggo named Bruce who wears a Batman cape. Plus Arrested Development and 10 Things I Hate About You references.
I don't hand out five-star reviews lightly. And yet BOTH of Jade's books are absolutely 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.
"Our Shouts Echo" is going to be echoing through my head for a long, long time. Preorder your copy from Sower, or head over to Jade's local POC-owned indies Octavia's Bookshelf, Reparations Club, or Casita Bookstore for signed copies plus limited-edition stickers! (I'm ordering mine as we speak!)
When am I going to stop being a die-hard Jade Adia fangirl?! When she stops pushing out GODDAMN FIVE-STAR BANGERS, that's when! This is two in a row from her and I will follow her to the ends of the earth.
there are indeed echoes of Octavia Butler/Parable of the Sower
pleasure activism
I don't think I've highlighted this many passages in a book....EVER.
"I'm starting to think that who I am today has more in common with who I'll be in the future than who I've been in the past."
"Mac's looking at me as if I'm in the middle of a mental breakdown. But I'm actually experiencing the opposite -- a mental breakupward? Is that a thing? A moment of hysterical joy and freedom that cracks open something inside of you and brings your spirit higher and higher?"
"...a pair of insanely dorky yet functional hiking pants that zip off at the knees and convert into shorts, even though I'm certain that I will never take advantage of that feature. Although I imagine that somewhere in Utah, there's a middle-aged white man out in the woods, absolutely psyched to convert his hiking pants into shorts...." YOU HATE TO SEE IT 😂😂😂😂😂
"'Well, what if endings, true endings, don't really exist?' Mac interjects. He catches my gaze and holds it steady. 'What if we let go of the idea of finite endings, and instead thought about transformations? Like, what if everything that we currently call an ending is actually just transforming to the next form? We night not know what exactly the next form is, but we don't need to understand it to think of it as changing into something else.'" MY GIRL'S BEEN READING OCTAVIA, CALLIN IT RN
"'The world is harsh. Sometimes we gotta dissociate to soften the blows. But I can't, like, live in that constant state forever. The goal is balance, or whatever. I don't know. I'm tryna figure my shit out, man.'" why u gotta @ me like that
"I crawl into a ball beneath the covers, my voice barely a whisper. 'I can't tell you how much it hurts.'
I hear a sniffle up above. 'That's okay.' A wipe of the nose. A shaky exhale. 'I'm glad you told someone that it hurts at all.'"
"...It scared her how much she wanted to live. So, when the dust settled, she didn't keep her fear a secret this time. Her people kept her safe. Life in ruins is still life. The sky may fall one day, but how beautiful it is to hold and be held in the meantime."
"What a brilliant, twisted miracle it is to survive oneself."
"It's work. Real work to choose to stay here. [...] If you're reading this, sometime in the future, that means that you're still doing it -- still choosing. And for that, I thank you. [...]
Until the next transformation, our job is simple: Be here now.
The world is always ending. We stay in love."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2025
Was very good. It definitely had some hard topics to read about but it was handled very well.
March 15, 2025
I cried reading these hauntingly beautiful words about depression that felt so familiar to my experience.
“I don't know why I get like this. Other people deal with what life throws at them and manage to not sink into a comatose state of debilitating sadness. I must not be as strong as other people.
I never know how long it will last. But I know it always will pass. In the meantime, all I can do is wait. Wait for it to subside or for the kink in my back from lying in bed all day to become unbearable enough to motivate me to leave my room.”
“I don't know why I get like this. Other people deal with what life throws at them and manage to not sink into a comatose state of debilitating sadness. I must not be as strong as other people.
I never know how long it will last. But I know it always will pass. In the meantime, all I can do is wait. Wait for it to subside or for the kink in my back from lying in bed all day to become unbearable enough to motivate me to leave my room.”
March 14, 2025
I felt like the ending was a bit rushed but overall it was a pretty good book
July 25, 2024
I recieved a free eARC of this book. Thank you for the opportunity to read it.
Niarah is a prepper. Being prepared, whether it's via her backpack, stuffed with essential supplies, or via the "Camp Doom" emergency shelter she's building in the backyard, makes her feel safer, helps hold off the severe anxiety and existential depression she battles daily.
I review a lot of MG and YA books. In general, if it has a flag on it related to disability, mental illness, or LGBTQ, I'm probably going to request it. I usually don't pay much attention to the descriptions, and since I often request a dozen or more books at a time, I don't necessarily remember which was which when I start reading.
"Our Shouts Echo" was one of those books where the description didn't register much. I knew the MC was a doomsday prepper who was struggling with a crush and whether to let the object of said crush in.
I didn't expect it to be the absolute best depiction of existential depression and rejection sensitive dysphoria I've ever seen in print. I didn't expect Niarah's story to pull me in, and, at the same time, want to cry because I recognized SO many kids in it. Kids that might not get to the point of carrying iodine for water purification everywhere, but at the same time now are thinking "if I grow up", not "when I grow up", who have little hope for the future. And who, honestly, are pretty justified in thinking so, because of the world they live in, having dealt with COVID and often a loss of connections with friends as a result, the political system, the climate, and, most of all,that they're expected to be the ones to change the world. Add personal trauma and it quickly ends up being just too much.
Niarah's emotions gradually develop, and it becomes clear how much anger she has. And, to a large degree, how justified her emotions are. And how every step towards feeling, even a little, and thinking about tomorrow in any way other than survival can start a new spiral.
I don't know if this book will make it into libraries. It is unapologetically real. She is an abuse survivor. There are drugs and alcohol. There is sex. The book says gay and trans. Niarah is dealing with suicidal ideation-in fact, this is what her prepping is largely helping her deal with. Her mother isn't terribly effective. Her new would be stepfather is trying,but she's pushing him away. Her father is associated with fear and panic. She wants to let Mac and to a lesser extent, Sage and Andrew in,but she knows they just graduated high school and will be leaving her, and finds it hard. This isn't a "girl falls in love and the world comes into alignment and everything is better" book. It is a "can a character trust even a little" book.
Every parent, every teacher, every scout leader, every social worker, every therapist, everyone who deals with teens at all should read this book. Because there are a lot of Niarah's out there. A lot of kids who are hurting and who cover it up by being prickly, hard to like, hard to understand. A lot of kids who can't take a shower without fears of dying. Who can't just relax and go out with friends because of the knoweldge that at some point in the future, that friend will leave. Who can't escape either their past or the future. And who are one earthquake, figurative or real, from total collapse.
A lot of kids who are more than their behavior or their grades. For whom platitudes aren't enough.
This book doesn't offer solutions. But maybe, just maybe, it's a start.
Niarah is a prepper. Being prepared, whether it's via her backpack, stuffed with essential supplies, or via the "Camp Doom" emergency shelter she's building in the backyard, makes her feel safer, helps hold off the severe anxiety and existential depression she battles daily.
I review a lot of MG and YA books. In general, if it has a flag on it related to disability, mental illness, or LGBTQ, I'm probably going to request it. I usually don't pay much attention to the descriptions, and since I often request a dozen or more books at a time, I don't necessarily remember which was which when I start reading.
"Our Shouts Echo" was one of those books where the description didn't register much. I knew the MC was a doomsday prepper who was struggling with a crush and whether to let the object of said crush in.
I didn't expect it to be the absolute best depiction of existential depression and rejection sensitive dysphoria I've ever seen in print. I didn't expect Niarah's story to pull me in, and, at the same time, want to cry because I recognized SO many kids in it. Kids that might not get to the point of carrying iodine for water purification everywhere, but at the same time now are thinking "if I grow up", not "when I grow up", who have little hope for the future. And who, honestly, are pretty justified in thinking so, because of the world they live in, having dealt with COVID and often a loss of connections with friends as a result, the political system, the climate, and, most of all,that they're expected to be the ones to change the world. Add personal trauma and it quickly ends up being just too much.
Niarah's emotions gradually develop, and it becomes clear how much anger she has. And, to a large degree, how justified her emotions are. And how every step towards feeling, even a little, and thinking about tomorrow in any way other than survival can start a new spiral.
I don't know if this book will make it into libraries. It is unapologetically real. She is an abuse survivor. There are drugs and alcohol. There is sex. The book says gay and trans. Niarah is dealing with suicidal ideation-in fact, this is what her prepping is largely helping her deal with. Her mother isn't terribly effective. Her new would be stepfather is trying,but she's pushing him away. Her father is associated with fear and panic. She wants to let Mac and to a lesser extent, Sage and Andrew in,but she knows they just graduated high school and will be leaving her, and finds it hard. This isn't a "girl falls in love and the world comes into alignment and everything is better" book. It is a "can a character trust even a little" book.
Every parent, every teacher, every scout leader, every social worker, every therapist, everyone who deals with teens at all should read this book. Because there are a lot of Niarah's out there. A lot of kids who are hurting and who cover it up by being prickly, hard to like, hard to understand. A lot of kids who can't take a shower without fears of dying. Who can't just relax and go out with friends because of the knoweldge that at some point in the future, that friend will leave. Who can't escape either their past or the future. And who are one earthquake, figurative or real, from total collapse.
A lot of kids who are more than their behavior or their grades. For whom platitudes aren't enough.
This book doesn't offer solutions. But maybe, just maybe, it's a start.
May 10, 2025
3 1/2 stars
my first romance in a very long time! i enjoyed it. i can definitely see the appeal of reading romance, but i still enjoyed the other parts of the story more. niarah's existential dread resonated HEAVILY with me, and i expect it will resonate with others too. i am grateful that this author took the time to address climate change in a book for and about teenagers; even though we are hurdling towards our imminent destruction, we still barely talk about it! 😀 niarah's comment about school being a factory where young people are taught to be workers, consumers, and saviors was so true. "It's like us students are the spare tire in the back of a van being joyridden by older generations, but instead of actually changing the way that they're driving, the adults keep speeding straight towards a pit a nails, knowing that us youngins will be there to clean up their mess." damn.
not only did the author mention climate change, she also touched on many other issues, like racism, domestic violence, neurodivergence, exploring your sexuality (btw, love how niarah was bisexual!!!), and more. mac’s story about how he blames himself for his brother’s illness broke my heart and is a great example of environmental racism.
i appreciated how the author mentioned the connection between an individual's trauma and the trauma of witnessing the injustice in the world. like niarah said, how are we supposed to escape unsafe households when the world at large is unsafe? how do we find hope that something better is coming when disasters lurk around every corner? it is heartbreakingly real and something i struggle with every day.
the book did a great job at giving advice and finding hope even in the face of all this, though. i loved ox’s advice about finding “floaties” of love to keep you alive when you feel you’re stuck treading water in an ocean of anguish. i loved when mac asked niarah if she had ever thought about how maybe the end of society could be what we need to learn how to sustain life here. i loved when niarah said that even though she doesn’t think the world is getting better, she doesnt want to miss out on the miracles of the world, of change, of revolution, of love.
one of my biggest notes, though, is how disappointed i am that the author chose to write about covid in the past tense. for someone who is clearly so in tune with the social justice issues of our world, it was very disappointing when there was barely any mention of it despite it still killing and maiming thousands of people a week. for niarah to be so disillusioned with the government but not gaf about their treatment of covid was very disappointing, but i suppose it’s also realistic. 😐 disabled people are the most vulnerable population (and the only marginalized group that anyone can become a part of AT ANY TIME), and how we treat them reflects how compassionate our society is.
my first romance in a very long time! i enjoyed it. i can definitely see the appeal of reading romance, but i still enjoyed the other parts of the story more. niarah's existential dread resonated HEAVILY with me, and i expect it will resonate with others too. i am grateful that this author took the time to address climate change in a book for and about teenagers; even though we are hurdling towards our imminent destruction, we still barely talk about it! 😀 niarah's comment about school being a factory where young people are taught to be workers, consumers, and saviors was so true. "It's like us students are the spare tire in the back of a van being joyridden by older generations, but instead of actually changing the way that they're driving, the adults keep speeding straight towards a pit a nails, knowing that us youngins will be there to clean up their mess." damn.
not only did the author mention climate change, she also touched on many other issues, like racism, domestic violence, neurodivergence, exploring your sexuality (btw, love how niarah was bisexual!!!), and more. mac’s story about how he blames himself for his brother’s illness broke my heart and is a great example of environmental racism.
i appreciated how the author mentioned the connection between an individual's trauma and the trauma of witnessing the injustice in the world. like niarah said, how are we supposed to escape unsafe households when the world at large is unsafe? how do we find hope that something better is coming when disasters lurk around every corner? it is heartbreakingly real and something i struggle with every day.
the book did a great job at giving advice and finding hope even in the face of all this, though. i loved ox’s advice about finding “floaties” of love to keep you alive when you feel you’re stuck treading water in an ocean of anguish. i loved when mac asked niarah if she had ever thought about how maybe the end of society could be what we need to learn how to sustain life here. i loved when niarah said that even though she doesn’t think the world is getting better, she doesnt want to miss out on the miracles of the world, of change, of revolution, of love.
one of my biggest notes, though, is how disappointed i am that the author chose to write about covid in the past tense. for someone who is clearly so in tune with the social justice issues of our world, it was very disappointing when there was barely any mention of it despite it still killing and maiming thousands of people a week. for niarah to be so disillusioned with the government but not gaf about their treatment of covid was very disappointing, but i suppose it’s also realistic. 😐 disabled people are the most vulnerable population (and the only marginalized group that anyone can become a part of AT ANY TIME), and how we treat them reflects how compassionate our society is.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2025
At first, the narration style of the MC made me roll my eyes and consider DNFing. It's also the reason why I knocked off a star. But I'm not a quitter, and if you find yourself being annoyed with the MC, apply a filter and just read without inhibition. With that strategy I came to understand Niarah and her perception of the world.
I relate to Niarah in many ways, including the description of the sadness and overwhelming need to fill your mind with anything and everything but your own thoughts. There were also many aspects of her character or other characters that I could not relate to, but I always find it refreshing to see a POV from a life different than my own.
It was an enjoyable book. Niarah may be flawed, but I expected that. To round this review off here are some notes I took on my phone while reading.
Incredibly real and made me giggle.
I like that this book has realistic flirting that isn't dancing around the subject until BOOM they both realize it and are in love. Like, they KNOW they're flirting and there's awkward moments but so what that's life. It's so well-written.
Normally I cringe at flirty lines when the MMC says them but Mac. . . he's making me question things whenever he flirts with her.
Realistic texts between Gen Z teenagers? THANK YOU JADE ADIA
Contrast between her mother and her, their differing levels of preparedness. Loved that dynamic.
Ox.
Relatable
Niarah feeling uncomfortable around the new friend group because she doesn't know what to say and she feels like everyone is miles ahead of her in awareness? great writing
Shut up before I rip you out of these pages myself and kiss you
Andrew's hero being Anthony Bourdain is real as fuck and I'm going to remember that part specifically for a long time
When Mac gives Niarah a direct compliment for one of the first times he's NERVOUS like yes give me more MMCs like that
ATLA reference pg243 = goated
I relate to Niarah in many ways, including the description of the sadness and overwhelming need to fill your mind with anything and everything but your own thoughts. There were also many aspects of her character or other characters that I could not relate to, but I always find it refreshing to see a POV from a life different than my own.
It was an enjoyable book. Niarah may be flawed, but I expected that. To round this review off here are some notes I took on my phone while reading.
'Uhm. Yes. It's. . . a tree.' I should have known this beautiful boy would be stupid."
Incredibly real and made me giggle.
I like that this book has realistic flirting that isn't dancing around the subject until BOOM they both realize it and are in love. Like, they KNOW they're flirting and there's awkward moments but so what that's life. It's so well-written.
Normally I cringe at flirty lines when the MMC says them but Mac. . . he's making me question things whenever he flirts with her.
Realistic texts between Gen Z teenagers? THANK YOU JADE ADIA
Contrast between her mother and her, their differing levels of preparedness. Loved that dynamic.
Ox.
Chafing, the devil's work, indeed.
Relatable
Niarah feeling uncomfortable around the new friend group because she doesn't know what to say and she feels like everyone is miles ahead of her in awareness? great writing
'Well, then. I change my choice. I wanna be Beast Boy.'
Shut up before I rip you out of these pages myself and kiss you
Andrew's hero being Anthony Bourdain is real as fuck and I'm going to remember that part specifically for a long time
When Mac gives Niarah a direct compliment for one of the first times he's NERVOUS like yes give me more MMCs like that
ATLA reference pg243 = goated
September 26, 2025
Did The First Chapter Get You Hooked? Yes
Would You Recommend This Book? Sure?
Ehhhhh. It was decent, but I really did not care for it. There were many issues brought up in this book, such as depression, trauma, addiction, substance abuse, abuse, suicidal ideation, and more. The story wasn’t anything special, though. I liked the fact the chapters were short. If they had been longer, I would definitely have had a hard time finishing up the book. I honestly don’t think anyone in this book was emotionally stable. Which, wow, was a lot of people. I think it’s worth mentioning the part that I really liked was the mom and daughter interaction at the end. I felt the raw emotion because I felt the mother‘s fear.
I’m going to talk a bit about the characters.
Starting off with our main character, Niarah. I’m so confused about what her problem is. I get that something happened, which made her become a doomsday prepper. However, is it ever really explained? No, I think not. The author barely said anything about what caused this. Something went down with the mum and dad, and yes, I get it, but why did she stop all contact with her dad? I also felt like her mum was too lenient on her, because Niarah needed to be put straight. The mum would let her do whatever she wanted. What do you mean a mum would let her child continue failing all her classes if she knew they were? Anyways, I didn’t vibe with Niarah. I felt she was too problematic. I definitely didn’t want her with Mac (the love interest). Mac already had much on his plate to deal with her. She was the one that initiated fights, but Mac would always have to be the one to come make a peace treaty.
Now Mac I felt bad for him because how did he put up with Niarah! He was definitely the sunshine of the book. However, he had his own flaws. He was very forgetful and he constantly blamed himself for certain things (don’t want to spoil), but I still think he was too good for Niarah.
Andrew was absolutely lovely! I loved the fact that he enjoyed the culinary arts. There was a page I really enjoyed that the author added. It was Andrew’s bonfire menu. If you want to have a bonfire, use that menu and let me know how good it was. The only bad thing about Andrew was he was addicted to the green leaf.
Sage well, I don’t have much on him because he didn’t talk. I honestly don’t know what his problem was. Why didn’t he talk and just type down what he said????
And the last mention that I think is worth it is Ox. He was the mum's new boyfriend. He was a really cool, chill guy. I don’t see how Niarah couldn’t like him. He helped Niarah when she needed help and gave her space when she wanted it. The only thing about Ox was that he was a recovering alcoholic.
Would You Recommend This Book? Sure?
Ehhhhh. It was decent, but I really did not care for it. There were many issues brought up in this book, such as depression, trauma, addiction, substance abuse, abuse, suicidal ideation, and more. The story wasn’t anything special, though. I liked the fact the chapters were short. If they had been longer, I would definitely have had a hard time finishing up the book. I honestly don’t think anyone in this book was emotionally stable. Which, wow, was a lot of people. I think it’s worth mentioning the part that I really liked was the mom and daughter interaction at the end. I felt the raw emotion because I felt the mother‘s fear.
I’m going to talk a bit about the characters.
Starting off with our main character, Niarah. I’m so confused about what her problem is. I get that something happened, which made her become a doomsday prepper. However, is it ever really explained? No, I think not. The author barely said anything about what caused this. Something went down with the mum and dad, and yes, I get it, but why did she stop all contact with her dad? I also felt like her mum was too lenient on her, because Niarah needed to be put straight. The mum would let her do whatever she wanted. What do you mean a mum would let her child continue failing all her classes if she knew they were? Anyways, I didn’t vibe with Niarah. I felt she was too problematic. I definitely didn’t want her with Mac (the love interest). Mac already had much on his plate to deal with her. She was the one that initiated fights, but Mac would always have to be the one to come make a peace treaty.
Now Mac I felt bad for him because how did he put up with Niarah! He was definitely the sunshine of the book. However, he had his own flaws. He was very forgetful and he constantly blamed himself for certain things (don’t want to spoil), but I still think he was too good for Niarah.
Andrew was absolutely lovely! I loved the fact that he enjoyed the culinary arts. There was a page I really enjoyed that the author added. It was Andrew’s bonfire menu. If you want to have a bonfire, use that menu and let me know how good it was. The only bad thing about Andrew was he was addicted to the green leaf.
Sage well, I don’t have much on him because he didn’t talk. I honestly don’t know what his problem was. Why didn’t he talk and just type down what he said????
And the last mention that I think is worth it is Ox. He was the mum's new boyfriend. He was a really cool, chill guy. I don’t see how Niarah couldn’t like him. He helped Niarah when she needed help and gave her space when she wanted it. The only thing about Ox was that he was a recovering alcoholic.
August 26, 2024
A big thanks to NetGalley and Disney Publishing for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Such a cutesy summer read, I wish I had picked it up sooner.
Our Shouts Echo by Jade Adia is a YA contemporary novel that follows the basic premise of Survival Tip #1: The world is going to shit. Whatever you do, don’t fall in love. Sixteen-year old Niarah Holloway’s only goal in life is to get through it unnoticed. That, and to spend her first summer in LA building a doomsday bunker in her backyard. Because if the past few years have taught Niarah anything, it’s that the ocean levels are rising, minimum wage is a scam, and the people who are supposed to protect you will hurt you. Now the only thing that helps Niarah stay afloat amidst the constant waves of anxiety and dread that threaten to drag her under is her new mantra: Be prepared. But Niarah wasn’t prepared for Mac Torres. Not for his disarmingly cute face, or for his surfer lifestyle, or for the way his smile resuscitates her heart. Mac is a bomb that blows Niarah’s world to pieces, but instead of disaster, he fills it with sunset bonfires, breakfast burritos, and new friends. For years, Niarah’s life has revolved around ignoring the demons of her past, avoiding the problems of her present, and preparing for the catastrophes of the future. Now Mac—with his sunshine laugh and infectious optimism— is determined to show her another way to be. But in a world where the worst feels inevitable, can one summer be enough to light the way to a hopeful future? Can one summer be enough to fall in love?
This is a cute and out of my comfort zone read, and I'm glad I took the chance on it. My only qualm is that I wished it focused a little more on the mental health part, but hey it's a contemporary. I got what I expected.
Such a cutesy summer read, I wish I had picked it up sooner.
Our Shouts Echo by Jade Adia is a YA contemporary novel that follows the basic premise of Survival Tip #1: The world is going to shit. Whatever you do, don’t fall in love. Sixteen-year old Niarah Holloway’s only goal in life is to get through it unnoticed. That, and to spend her first summer in LA building a doomsday bunker in her backyard. Because if the past few years have taught Niarah anything, it’s that the ocean levels are rising, minimum wage is a scam, and the people who are supposed to protect you will hurt you. Now the only thing that helps Niarah stay afloat amidst the constant waves of anxiety and dread that threaten to drag her under is her new mantra: Be prepared. But Niarah wasn’t prepared for Mac Torres. Not for his disarmingly cute face, or for his surfer lifestyle, or for the way his smile resuscitates her heart. Mac is a bomb that blows Niarah’s world to pieces, but instead of disaster, he fills it with sunset bonfires, breakfast burritos, and new friends. For years, Niarah’s life has revolved around ignoring the demons of her past, avoiding the problems of her present, and preparing for the catastrophes of the future. Now Mac—with his sunshine laugh and infectious optimism— is determined to show her another way to be. But in a world where the worst feels inevitable, can one summer be enough to light the way to a hopeful future? Can one summer be enough to fall in love?
This is a cute and out of my comfort zone read, and I'm glad I took the chance on it. My only qualm is that I wished it focused a little more on the mental health part, but hey it's a contemporary. I got what I expected.
September 6, 2024
This books punched my in my chest, looked me in the eyes and asked me if I was breathing.
I really thought Mac was going to pull some captain save a girl but… even thought I expected maybe even a little bit wanted that I’m so glad that what we got instead was so much better.
Tears swell up in my eyes thinking just how I’ve often felt the dread of existence and does anything truly matter if it’s all just for a temporary high.. and for Ms. Jade Aida to so eloquently describe how that feels, to remind you of the feeling and then ask the ever so damnned question of “ Are you okay?”
I just…. I’m left speechless.
I’m a little hurt at the ending but at the same time I also feel so much relief by it. Which is so crazy. It’s not an ending I wanted but I still feel like it was the ending this booked needed.
The amount of time I had to pause because I felt my heart trying to jack hammer itself out of my chest were plentiful… i can’t believe that was it, I want so much more from that odd ball bunch of friends. I have so many questions!
But I think that’s also what makes the ending so beautiful and even though I want to say it was dissatisfying it was probably the complete opposite of that.
I feel seen.
I feel even for the moments I was reading words on page felt understood
Not alone
And for that, I can’t thank Ms. Aida enough for creating this book.
So yeah that’s my review. My only wish is that I had this book earlier so my high school version of me could read this. But I think maybe that’s also what’s great about timing some things just are right on the mark
Update:
Those last few pages just really just shatter my kneecaps.
That last good bye wrecks me
And then the nerve to have the last lines be
Remember what Mac said, …….
Be here now,
The world is always ending
We stay in love
*screams into pillow*
I really thought Mac was going to pull some captain save a girl but… even thought I expected maybe even a little bit wanted that I’m so glad that what we got instead was so much better.
Tears swell up in my eyes thinking just how I’ve often felt the dread of existence and does anything truly matter if it’s all just for a temporary high.. and for Ms. Jade Aida to so eloquently describe how that feels, to remind you of the feeling and then ask the ever so damnned question of “ Are you okay?”
I just…. I’m left speechless.
I’m a little hurt at the ending but at the same time I also feel so much relief by it. Which is so crazy. It’s not an ending I wanted but I still feel like it was the ending this booked needed.
The amount of time I had to pause because I felt my heart trying to jack hammer itself out of my chest were plentiful… i can’t believe that was it, I want so much more from that odd ball bunch of friends. I have so many questions!
But I think that’s also what makes the ending so beautiful and even though I want to say it was dissatisfying it was probably the complete opposite of that.
I feel seen.
I feel even for the moments I was reading words on page felt understood
Not alone
And for that, I can’t thank Ms. Aida enough for creating this book.
So yeah that’s my review. My only wish is that I had this book earlier so my high school version of me could read this. But I think maybe that’s also what’s great about timing some things just are right on the mark
Update:
Those last few pages just really just shatter my kneecaps.
That last good bye wrecks me
And then the nerve to have the last lines be
Remember what Mac said, …….
Be here now,
The world is always ending
We stay in love
*screams into pillow*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2025
I loved the YA writing style - the syrupy, melodramatic, teenager-but-also-sort-of-not dramaticism. As I wrote in my mid-book update, this is exactly the type of book I loved when I was a teenager, and I like especially that this one is from the perspective of a girl (John Green couldn’t hold a candle to this one!). At no point could I guess what was coming next — not in a thriller type of way, but more in the teenager, not totally following the characters’ line of thinking way. I think the author did really well at making the book exciting in the right ways. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s to come from this author.
Mac is a confusing character to me. Like, what do you mean he is an 18-year-old boy who has read “Braiding Sweetgrass” and talks about how the patriarchy and dominion make us try to control our emotions and wants to talk about the various forms of intimacy that aren’t sex but gets soooo pissed at Niarah when her dad shows up at the climbing gym - like he can’t understand how his understanding that her dad is dead was a miscommunication? Not to mention that he really shames her for drinking and being 16 years old when he’s the one who bought fake IDs for everyone. I think he’s a bit snobbish even though he tries super hard not to be. And I loved when Niarah called him out for it. He’s like the nice guy you don’t see coming.
I related a lot to Niarah’s emo teenage self, because I talked and thinked the same way when I was 16. I was more of an anxious/active/busy depressive than she is, but I resonated deeply with her thoughts.
The one-paged chapter “It Could All Be So Simple” of Niarah/Mac and Niarah’s mother/father and love + violence is so striking. My heart hurts for Niarah - she shouldn’t have to have witnessed such violence from such a young age.
All in all, it’s a lovely coming-of-age story that is so relevant *now*.
Mac is a confusing character to me. Like, what do you mean he is an 18-year-old boy who has read “Braiding Sweetgrass” and talks about how the patriarchy and dominion make us try to control our emotions and wants to talk about the various forms of intimacy that aren’t sex but gets soooo pissed at Niarah when her dad shows up at the climbing gym - like he can’t understand how his understanding that her dad is dead was a miscommunication? Not to mention that he really shames her for drinking and being 16 years old when he’s the one who bought fake IDs for everyone. I think he’s a bit snobbish even though he tries super hard not to be. And I loved when Niarah called him out for it. He’s like the nice guy you don’t see coming.
I related a lot to Niarah’s emo teenage self, because I talked and thinked the same way when I was 16. I was more of an anxious/active/busy depressive than she is, but I resonated deeply with her thoughts.
The one-paged chapter “It Could All Be So Simple” of Niarah/Mac and Niarah’s mother/father and love + violence is so striking. My heart hurts for Niarah - she shouldn’t have to have witnessed such violence from such a young age.
All in all, it’s a lovely coming-of-age story that is so relevant *now*.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2024
Jade, Jade! I watched her accept the Coretta Scott King-John Steptoe New Talent Award for her first book, so I had high hopes for this one—and she delivered. Also, happy release date!
I received this ARC from Hyperion at ALA this year and I'm glad I did. This coming-of-age novel follows a practical but paranoid teenage "doomsdayer" named Niarah. She makes a deal with her teacher and guidance counselor to use her summer project of building a doomsday bunker into a genuine make-up project to pass the class she slacked off on all year. But she also has to make up her PE credit for ditching so much, which is why Mac comes into the picture. Mac—sweet, cute, leader of local nature group that can sign off on Niarah's PE hours, and unfortunately leaving for college in the fall—is part of the key to not failing sophomore year. Niarah is someone who prepares for and expects only the worst, so what happens when life starts to go well? That, she is not prepared for.
This novel was a heart-wrenchingly truthful ode to the pain that comes with walking the line between nihilism and existentialism. It was also funny, written with the narrative voice of someone who actually understands what it's like to be young and scared right now. It respects the boundary that survivors build: the "yes, this happened to me," but "no, it's not all that I am." We don't have to see it written out in detail. Brilliant writers will show and not tell, but Jade also writes in a way where sometimes, you can leave things implied—and there is a power in putting together the pieces without being given all the words.
There is a foreword/content warning at the beginning that starts with, "This book is about being alive." Indeed it is, and I highly recommend it.
I received this ARC from Hyperion at ALA this year and I'm glad I did. This coming-of-age novel follows a practical but paranoid teenage "doomsdayer" named Niarah. She makes a deal with her teacher and guidance counselor to use her summer project of building a doomsday bunker into a genuine make-up project to pass the class she slacked off on all year. But she also has to make up her PE credit for ditching so much, which is why Mac comes into the picture. Mac—sweet, cute, leader of local nature group that can sign off on Niarah's PE hours, and unfortunately leaving for college in the fall—is part of the key to not failing sophomore year. Niarah is someone who prepares for and expects only the worst, so what happens when life starts to go well? That, she is not prepared for.
This novel was a heart-wrenchingly truthful ode to the pain that comes with walking the line between nihilism and existentialism. It was also funny, written with the narrative voice of someone who actually understands what it's like to be young and scared right now. It respects the boundary that survivors build: the "yes, this happened to me," but "no, it's not all that I am." We don't have to see it written out in detail. Brilliant writers will show and not tell, but Jade also writes in a way where sometimes, you can leave things implied—and there is a power in putting together the pieces without being given all the words.
There is a foreword/content warning at the beginning that starts with, "This book is about being alive." Indeed it is, and I highly recommend it.
May 24, 2025
I went into this book blindly as it was a recommendation from a friend. On one hand, this enhanced my reading experience. On the other hand, had I known some elements of the story, I probably wouldn't have picked it up on my own volition.
Niarah is on the brink of failing her sophomore year. With the Earth on a precipice, what's the point of classwork? But she doesn't really want to be held back a year, so she incorporates building her doomsday shelter into her summer school project. Along with this, she begrudgingly joins a hiking club to make up her PE credits. There, she meets Mac, and an unintentional summer romance begins.
I enjoyed the mental health and family drama aspects of the story and I found Niarah's 'Doomsday Girl' persona relatable, but I could have done without the romance. Mostly because it just feels super creepy when there is 'spice' involving teenage characters, especially when it's more than implied. Granted, I'm not the target age group, but that doesn't make it any less cringy to me, especially when written by adult authors. If not for that, this book would have been a solid four stars at least.
Another issue I had was that so much of the story remained vague and left more questions than answers. The result was a super rushed ending that opened up new conflict rather than resolving what had been built up until then. If there's a sequel planned, then I get it, but as of right now, I'm not left with the impression that this is intended to be a series.
Niarah is on the brink of failing her sophomore year. With the Earth on a precipice, what's the point of classwork? But she doesn't really want to be held back a year, so she incorporates building her doomsday shelter into her summer school project. Along with this, she begrudgingly joins a hiking club to make up her PE credits. There, she meets Mac, and an unintentional summer romance begins.
I enjoyed the mental health and family drama aspects of the story and I found Niarah's 'Doomsday Girl' persona relatable, but I could have done without the romance. Mostly because it just feels super creepy when there is 'spice' involving teenage characters, especially when it's more than implied. Granted, I'm not the target age group, but that doesn't make it any less cringy to me, especially when written by adult authors. If not for that, this book would have been a solid four stars at least.
Another issue I had was that so much of the story remained vague and left more questions than answers. The result was a super rushed ending that opened up new conflict rather than resolving what had been built up until then. If there's a sequel planned, then I get it, but as of right now, I'm not left with the impression that this is intended to be a series.
July 20, 2024
I think one of the most important things we can do in life is to always try to understand where other people are coming from. To really care, no matter how different they are from us or how much we don’t initially understand them. Books like this one can help to do that, if we pay attention.
Teenage Niarah is struggling with the effects of life’s wounds, which is compounded for her by the general overwhelmingness of life in this era. Teen angst is nothing new, nor is the struggle to find peace and comfort. But the specific coping that Niarah tries (doomsday prepping, general cynicism and nihilism) seems like something more unique to this generation. After being forced to try some new things so she won’t fail Sophomore year of high school, she finds new friends, new love, new outlooks on life, and new coping skills. It’s a coming of age that doesn’t skip over the realities of life and mental illness. But does show a few ways to find more meaning and purpose in the midst of it all.
Her voice is clear on the page. The humorous chapter titles keep the story flowing. And the notebook pages of Niarah’s school project interspersed with the text bring an artistic and realistic element to the structure of the book. The supporting characters are well developed and interesting. And the story avoids getting bogged down in long narrative passages.
Teenage Niarah is struggling with the effects of life’s wounds, which is compounded for her by the general overwhelmingness of life in this era. Teen angst is nothing new, nor is the struggle to find peace and comfort. But the specific coping that Niarah tries (doomsday prepping, general cynicism and nihilism) seems like something more unique to this generation. After being forced to try some new things so she won’t fail Sophomore year of high school, she finds new friends, new love, new outlooks on life, and new coping skills. It’s a coming of age that doesn’t skip over the realities of life and mental illness. But does show a few ways to find more meaning and purpose in the midst of it all.
Her voice is clear on the page. The humorous chapter titles keep the story flowing. And the notebook pages of Niarah’s school project interspersed with the text bring an artistic and realistic element to the structure of the book. The supporting characters are well developed and interesting. And the story avoids getting bogged down in long narrative passages.
June 21, 2024
WOW! Not just your average summer romance read. This book contains very real discussions of very real fears Gen Z faces today through the eyes of one Black teenage woman who is trying to cope with trauma, mental health, and the fact that she has to finish summer school to keep progressing in school... all while the weight of the world weighs on her shoulders. The new group of friends she makes contains significant cultural, socioeconomic, health, and sexual identities that are explored and discussed beautifully. The friendships and romances that develop in this book are immaculate and never shy away from deeper topics from mental health, climate change, natural disasters, first sexual experiences, exploration, love, codependency, coping skills, therapy, domestic violence, child abuse, and more! TW: suicide is discussed in this book so pay attention to that. Really appreciate the growth that Niarah embarks through in this! Not too wild and unbelievable. Just small and sweet steps toward healing. Beautiful book
January 27, 2025
Niarah lives with constant anxiety--fear about natural disasters, fear about the end of the world, fear about other people and their possible reactions. She copes with this anxiety the only way she knows how--by always being prepared. She can't wait for her senior year to be over so she can spend her summer building Camp Doom, a backyard bunker-style shelter. When Niarah ends up failing English and PE and must attend summer school, her plans for Camp Doom are in jeopardy. But a new opportunity to fulfill her PE credit will lead to new experiences and new friendships, if she can let them happen.
I really liked Niarah's snarky tone, and the mental health struggles in the book all felt realistic. My main complaint is the frequent inclusion of casual drinking and smoking pot that occurred throughout the book. Although there are probably some teens who behave this way, it's difficult for me to purchase and recommend a book to teens that makes it seem like drinking and smoking while just hanging out is a typical behavior.
I read an ARC from NetGalley.
I really liked Niarah's snarky tone, and the mental health struggles in the book all felt realistic. My main complaint is the frequent inclusion of casual drinking and smoking pot that occurred throughout the book. Although there are probably some teens who behave this way, it's difficult for me to purchase and recommend a book to teens that makes it seem like drinking and smoking while just hanging out is a typical behavior.
I read an ARC from NetGalley.
July 24, 2025
“‘When you care about the people around you, human society might not be as bleak as you think.’”
-
“Remebmer: Life can be more than survived. It can be lived.”
-
“I don’t think the world is getting better, but I don’t think that’s the point…The world is always ending. We stay in love.”
-
This was a random recommendation I got from a monthly email from my library, and I quite enjoyed it. The chapters were short and the writing was funny. Touches a lot on depression, anxiety, and has a suicide attempt. I found Niarah’s thoughts relatable, and the obsession with being prepared for doomsday was definitely unique. I enjoyed all the awkward flirting and Mac alternating between confident and shy - quite endearing. There were the consequences and dangers of having no labels on a relationship. Though it’s pretty crazy that an earthquake actually happened while they were on the backpacking trip… I also enjoyed the storyline with Ox.
-
“Remebmer: Life can be more than survived. It can be lived.”
-
“I don’t think the world is getting better, but I don’t think that’s the point…The world is always ending. We stay in love.”
-
This was a random recommendation I got from a monthly email from my library, and I quite enjoyed it. The chapters were short and the writing was funny. Touches a lot on depression, anxiety, and has a suicide attempt. I found Niarah’s thoughts relatable, and the obsession with being prepared for doomsday was definitely unique. I enjoyed all the awkward flirting and Mac alternating between confident and shy - quite endearing. There were the consequences and dangers of having no labels on a relationship. Though it’s pretty crazy that an earthquake actually happened while they were on the backpacking trip… I also enjoyed the storyline with Ox.
July 6, 2025
Reps: Black, Latinx, bisexual, straight, nonbinary
TW: depression/anxiety, suicidal ideation, domestic abuse (referenced), bullying, teen drinking and marijuana use
Swearing and sex: some swearing including the F-word, a couple sex scenes show healthy consent and fade to black
Loved this book. The narrator's voice was pitch-perfect for a cynical teen who has "been through it" and is trying to find control in her life. I loved Mac and the other side characters, especially Ox as a supportive but flawed father figure. And I could teach descriptive writing with this book. Chef's kiss. Also, the author gives us enough information to understand Niarah's perspective, but she doesn't have a "big reveal" conversation (so common in YA lit) that toes the line of trauma porn. Incredibly well handled.
Rec for HS
TW: depression/anxiety, suicidal ideation, domestic abuse (referenced), bullying, teen drinking and marijuana use
Swearing and sex: some swearing including the F-word, a couple sex scenes show healthy consent and fade to black
Loved this book. The narrator's voice was pitch-perfect for a cynical teen who has "been through it" and is trying to find control in her life. I loved Mac and the other side characters, especially Ox as a supportive but flawed father figure. And I could teach descriptive writing with this book. Chef's kiss. Also, the author gives us enough information to understand Niarah's perspective, but she doesn't have a "big reveal" conversation (so common in YA lit) that toes the line of trauma porn. Incredibly well handled.
Rec for HS
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews