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Race To The Finish Line
This young adult mystery novel features an extraordinary character never seen before in contemporary literature that is hellbent on confronting hate and uncovering a dangerous secret.
Aaleyah Ahmed had her senior year planned out. She would focus on diplomas, apply to universities, graduate, and take a road trip around Canada with her best friends. What was not a part of her plan was moving to a small town in America she’s never heard of because of her dad’s job.
What she wasn’t prepared for was discovering the town’s dark history that threatens the safety of her and her family.
Aaleyah and her friends vow to uncover the truth. However, they discover more than they bargained for. They realize they might be in over their heads, but they’re in too deep to stop.
One thing is for sure; everyone is hiding something.
Aaleyah Ahmed had her senior year planned out. She would focus on diplomas, apply to universities, graduate, and take a road trip around Canada with her best friends. What was not a part of her plan was moving to a small town in America she’s never heard of because of her dad’s job.
What she wasn’t prepared for was discovering the town’s dark history that threatens the safety of her and her family.
Aaleyah and her friends vow to uncover the truth. However, they discover more than they bargained for. They realize they might be in over their heads, but they’re in too deep to stop.
One thing is for sure; everyone is hiding something.
342 pages, Paperback
First published March 10, 2021
2 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
About the author
Aisha Yusuf
3 books12 followersAisha Yusuf is a Somali-Canadian born in Toronto, Canada, and currently resides in Edmonton. As a young teen, she was an avid reader, but as she got older, she noticed there was no representation of people who looked like her and had her shared experiences. In high school, she decided she was going to write the book she always wanted to read. She started her writing journey in high school and hasn’t stopped since.
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August 29, 2020
I know you shouldn't judge a book by its cover but WOW, look at that cover! Aside from the fact that it features a dark-skinned hijabi, have you ever seen anything more intriguing than this image of a Muslim girl squaring up to a KKK member?
I wish I enjoyed the content of this book as much as I did the cover, but unfortunately, that wasn't the case. Before I dive into why that was, though, let's start with some positives.
Firstly, let's look at the plot of this book. At the start of the novel, the MC, Aaliyah (a Black Canadian Muslim (hijabi) girl), finds out that she and her parents will be moving to a small town in the US for a year as her dad has been offered a temporary position there. Almost right away, the family realise they have moved to one of the most racist towns in America, where the KKK are very active, and throughout the book, Aaliyah (and the rest of her family) faces a ton of awful racism and Islamophobia ranging from passive-aggressive stares to bullying, intimidation, threats, and even physical abuse. As Aaliyah settles into this new town, particularly her new school, she discovers and goes on to investigate the hushed-up mystery of the disappearance of hundreds of Black people in the town.
As you’ll be able to tell from that synopsis, this is a book that covers some really heavy topics. I applaud the author for tackling the important yet difficult topics of racism and Islamophobia in the US. The book certainly doesn’t shy away from highlighting the ugly realities of racism (note that this book should probably come with trigger warnings of anti-Black racism, Islamophobia, and emotional/physical abuse). It’s also interesting that it’s set in a small, white-majority, KKK-active town as a lot of the racism Aaliyah experiences can seem very shocking in how overt it is but unfortunately, I assume that is the reality in small towns like this in the US. Despite the heavy topics, though, there was still a level of light-heartedness to the story, and I actually found it quite quick to get through.
I quite liked how the MC was a “strong” (eye-roll) female Muslim character who can stand up for herself and drives the narrative of the story (rather than being a passive character that is forced into doing things as is often the way Muslim girls are portrayed in fiction). I think perhaps the author took this too far though as at times, it did feel like she was the only one who was coming up with (quite obvious) ideas and everyone (particularly her friends) kind of hero-worshipped her.
As much as I really wanted to enjoy this book (well, as much as you can “enjoy” a book on such a serious topic), unfortunately it didn’t quite deliver for me. (Please don’t read further – or just skip to the last paragraph of this review – if you don’t want to read my negative thoughts on this book! There will also be some spoilers in the following paragraphs.)
Firstly, let’s go back to the side characters, Aaliyah’s friends at her new school. It isn’t implicitly stated what race they are, but from their surnames, it's implied that Brianna is Latino/Hispanic and Matthew is Chinese. What’s strange, for a book centred around racism, is that these characters’ race is very surface-level (the fact that these are two heavily featured characters in this book and I’m still not sure what race they’re supposed to be kind of illustrates that). It was disappointing how we learn next to nothing about their experiences of racism as it’s implied that they’re the only two POC at this school and have lived in the town their whole lives, so it would have been really interesting (and relevant) to have been given glimpses into the racism they had faced and their struggles too. Granted, the type of racism faced by Black people in the town is a lot different to other POC, but it would still have been interesting to read about what things had been like for them, particularly if they’d lived there their whole lives, so it was a shame that was pretty much ignored. More generally, I felt like Brianna and Matthew didn’t have much personality and were very two-dimensional characters. It felt like they were there solely for the purpose of progressing the plot, as pretty much everything that the three friends discover and manage to do is achieved by Brianna hacking a camera or computer or Matthew conveniently overhearing things. But more on that later.
Similarly, I thought Aaliyah’s parents came across very flat. Sure, the relationship between Aaliyah and her parents was sweet, and it was nice to read about a family that are very close and supportive of each other, but the way they interacted didn’t feel very realistic of a parent-teen daughter relationship. Also, I found it really strange how upon finding out that their daughter had been attacked and was being routinely harassed, as well as experiencing harassment themselves, Aaliyah’s parents didn’t move them all back to Canada. It seemed so weird and unrealistic that their lives are literally in danger but they decide to carry on living there for the rest of the year, when the only thing that was really keeping them in the town was a temporary job of the dad’s. (I’ll cover my issues with this part of the plot further in a bit.) Just to add, I think what would have helped make Aaliyah’s parents seem less two-dimensional is if we saw their experiences of living in the town and dealing with racism too. They briefly mention people staring at them, and there’s a scene where the whole family is threatened at their home, but otherwise it seems like Aaliyah’s parents are just going about their lives unbothered and unaffected by racism, and I just think it would have been interesting to hear more about their experiences of, for example, the racism they faced in the workplace or just more generally when interacting with other townfolk.
Moving on to the plot itself, unfortunately I didn't think the plot and the whole "mystery" element redeemed this story. The author was a bit too heavy-handed with their hints throughout the book, which meant pretty much all of the reveals were obvious and easy to guess before they were revealed. In fact, this just made Aaliyah and her friends (as well as the FBI) seem really clueless and dim because it takes them so long to figure stuff out when the clues are so obvious. The only "twist" that I didn't expect was the identity of Liam, but honestly, I thought that reveal felt a bit random and unnecessary. As mentioned earlier, the way that they found stuff out was very convenient. Brianna is a super genius hacker but it's too far-fetched how she can literally hack into any camera or computer (including the actual FBI database?!) so quickly, with no resistance, and without getting caught.
Actually, a lot of the stuff in this story felt very unconvincing, and I feel like the author had a lot further to go before they really sold it to me. For example, once the family realised they had moved to an incredibly racist town, it made no sense why they would continue to live there. Their move was only supposed to be for a year, they had friends and family (including their son) in Canada, the mum had a good job in Canada, and also it was Aaliyah's last year of high school, so it would have made more sense for her to finish off school there. So really, the only thing keeping them in this racist town was the dad’s (temporary) job, which wasn’t even based in that town but in a nearby one, so I just didn’t feel convinced that when the family were made to feel unsafe and the daughter’s life was literally threatened that they didn’t think it would be a good idea to move back (or at least move to a different town).
Finally, I don’t think it helped that the writing style wasn’t for me. It was written in first person past tense, which I always find a bit uncomfortable reading for some reason so it took me some time to adjust to that. The pacing felt very off too – there were some points where some things were explained in more detail than necessary (there is a scene where the MC is defending something she wrote in an essay and her side of the argument literally spans six (ebook) pages and felt like the author had just inserted the body of an essay) and other scenes that were rushed over; for example, the big scene at the end that the whole mystery throughout the book was leading up to was really rushed and very anti-climactic.
With all of this said, I do want to note that this is the author’s debut novel and that the author is only 22 years old – it’s actually very impressive that they were able to get published and I’m sure their writing will improve over time. I will also forever applaud and champion Muslim authors and books with Muslim characters and so I’m really glad this book does exist and is helping to pave the way for more books about Muslim experiences and increasing Muslim and Black representation in publishing. If you’re eager to read more books with Muslim (particularly Black Muslim) representation, I’d recommend this book. As I mentioned, I didn’t think the writing was the best, so if you think that’ll bother you then maybe keep that in mind.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an early eARC of this book.
I wish I enjoyed the content of this book as much as I did the cover, but unfortunately, that wasn't the case. Before I dive into why that was, though, let's start with some positives.
Firstly, let's look at the plot of this book. At the start of the novel, the MC, Aaliyah (a Black Canadian Muslim (hijabi) girl), finds out that she and her parents will be moving to a small town in the US for a year as her dad has been offered a temporary position there. Almost right away, the family realise they have moved to one of the most racist towns in America, where the KKK are very active, and throughout the book, Aaliyah (and the rest of her family) faces a ton of awful racism and Islamophobia ranging from passive-aggressive stares to bullying, intimidation, threats, and even physical abuse. As Aaliyah settles into this new town, particularly her new school, she discovers and goes on to investigate the hushed-up mystery of the disappearance of hundreds of Black people in the town.
As you’ll be able to tell from that synopsis, this is a book that covers some really heavy topics. I applaud the author for tackling the important yet difficult topics of racism and Islamophobia in the US. The book certainly doesn’t shy away from highlighting the ugly realities of racism (note that this book should probably come with trigger warnings of anti-Black racism, Islamophobia, and emotional/physical abuse). It’s also interesting that it’s set in a small, white-majority, KKK-active town as a lot of the racism Aaliyah experiences can seem very shocking in how overt it is but unfortunately, I assume that is the reality in small towns like this in the US. Despite the heavy topics, though, there was still a level of light-heartedness to the story, and I actually found it quite quick to get through.
I quite liked how the MC was a “strong” (eye-roll) female Muslim character who can stand up for herself and drives the narrative of the story (rather than being a passive character that is forced into doing things as is often the way Muslim girls are portrayed in fiction). I think perhaps the author took this too far though as at times, it did feel like she was the only one who was coming up with (quite obvious) ideas and everyone (particularly her friends) kind of hero-worshipped her.
As much as I really wanted to enjoy this book (well, as much as you can “enjoy” a book on such a serious topic), unfortunately it didn’t quite deliver for me. (Please don’t read further – or just skip to the last paragraph of this review – if you don’t want to read my negative thoughts on this book! There will also be some spoilers in the following paragraphs.)
Firstly, let’s go back to the side characters, Aaliyah’s friends at her new school. It isn’t implicitly stated what race they are, but from their surnames, it's implied that Brianna is Latino/Hispanic and Matthew is Chinese. What’s strange, for a book centred around racism, is that these characters’ race is very surface-level (the fact that these are two heavily featured characters in this book and I’m still not sure what race they’re supposed to be kind of illustrates that). It was disappointing how we learn next to nothing about their experiences of racism as it’s implied that they’re the only two POC at this school and have lived in the town their whole lives, so it would have been really interesting (and relevant) to have been given glimpses into the racism they had faced and their struggles too. Granted, the type of racism faced by Black people in the town is a lot different to other POC, but it would still have been interesting to read about what things had been like for them, particularly if they’d lived there their whole lives, so it was a shame that was pretty much ignored. More generally, I felt like Brianna and Matthew didn’t have much personality and were very two-dimensional characters. It felt like they were there solely for the purpose of progressing the plot, as pretty much everything that the three friends discover and manage to do is achieved by Brianna hacking a camera or computer or Matthew conveniently overhearing things. But more on that later.
Similarly, I thought Aaliyah’s parents came across very flat. Sure, the relationship between Aaliyah and her parents was sweet, and it was nice to read about a family that are very close and supportive of each other, but the way they interacted didn’t feel very realistic of a parent-teen daughter relationship. Also, I found it really strange how upon finding out that their daughter had been attacked and was being routinely harassed, as well as experiencing harassment themselves, Aaliyah’s parents didn’t move them all back to Canada. It seemed so weird and unrealistic that their lives are literally in danger but they decide to carry on living there for the rest of the year, when the only thing that was really keeping them in the town was a temporary job of the dad’s. (I’ll cover my issues with this part of the plot further in a bit.) Just to add, I think what would have helped make Aaliyah’s parents seem less two-dimensional is if we saw their experiences of living in the town and dealing with racism too. They briefly mention people staring at them, and there’s a scene where the whole family is threatened at their home, but otherwise it seems like Aaliyah’s parents are just going about their lives unbothered and unaffected by racism, and I just think it would have been interesting to hear more about their experiences of, for example, the racism they faced in the workplace or just more generally when interacting with other townfolk.
Moving on to the plot itself, unfortunately I didn't think the plot and the whole "mystery" element redeemed this story. The author was a bit too heavy-handed with their hints throughout the book, which meant pretty much all of the reveals were obvious and easy to guess before they were revealed. In fact, this just made Aaliyah and her friends (as well as the FBI) seem really clueless and dim because it takes them so long to figure stuff out when the clues are so obvious. The only "twist" that I didn't expect was the identity of Liam, but honestly, I thought that reveal felt a bit random and unnecessary. As mentioned earlier, the way that they found stuff out was very convenient. Brianna is a super genius hacker but it's too far-fetched how she can literally hack into any camera or computer (including the actual FBI database?!) so quickly, with no resistance, and without getting caught.
Actually, a lot of the stuff in this story felt very unconvincing, and I feel like the author had a lot further to go before they really sold it to me. For example, once the family realised they had moved to an incredibly racist town, it made no sense why they would continue to live there. Their move was only supposed to be for a year, they had friends and family (including their son) in Canada, the mum had a good job in Canada, and also it was Aaliyah's last year of high school, so it would have made more sense for her to finish off school there. So really, the only thing keeping them in this racist town was the dad’s (temporary) job, which wasn’t even based in that town but in a nearby one, so I just didn’t feel convinced that when the family were made to feel unsafe and the daughter’s life was literally threatened that they didn’t think it would be a good idea to move back (or at least move to a different town).
Finally, I don’t think it helped that the writing style wasn’t for me. It was written in first person past tense, which I always find a bit uncomfortable reading for some reason so it took me some time to adjust to that. The pacing felt very off too – there were some points where some things were explained in more detail than necessary (there is a scene where the MC is defending something she wrote in an essay and her side of the argument literally spans six (ebook) pages and felt like the author had just inserted the body of an essay) and other scenes that were rushed over; for example, the big scene at the end that the whole mystery throughout the book was leading up to was really rushed and very anti-climactic.
With all of this said, I do want to note that this is the author’s debut novel and that the author is only 22 years old – it’s actually very impressive that they were able to get published and I’m sure their writing will improve over time. I will also forever applaud and champion Muslim authors and books with Muslim characters and so I’m really glad this book does exist and is helping to pave the way for more books about Muslim experiences and increasing Muslim and Black representation in publishing. If you’re eager to read more books with Muslim (particularly Black Muslim) representation, I’d recommend this book. As I mentioned, I didn’t think the writing was the best, so if you think that’ll bother you then maybe keep that in mind.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an early eARC of this book.
September 17, 2022
Ein sehr wichtiges Buch über Rassismus, Identität und Mut.
Nachdem Aaleyahs Familie für ein Jahr in die Kleinstadt „Anderton“ zieht, beginnt für sie ein einziger Alptraum.
Als schwarze, bedeckte Muslimah, erfährt Aaleyah von vornherein rassistische und islamophobe Bemerkungen und wird von der ganzen (weißen) Stadt angestarrt.
Die Stadt selbst ist dafür bekannt, dass über die Jahre schwarze Menschen spurlos verschwunden sind, was die ganze Sache nicht besser macht.
Trotz der ekelhaften Bemerkungen lässt sich Aaleyah nicht kleinkriegen und versucht ihren Alltag so schnell wie möglich hinter sich zu bringen.
Einen Teil ihrer Zeit verbringt sie in dem Bücherladen eines alten Herren, der der einzige in der Stadt ist, der sie nicht mit seinen Blicken durchlöchert.
Wie es das Schicksal wo will, lernt sie nach einiger Zeit auch in der Schule die einzigen zwei Personen kennen, die gute Absichten mit ihr haben, mit denen sie sich schnell anfreundet und durch die sie dann in das Schulzeitungsteam aufgenommen wird.
Der Terror hört hier jedoch nicht auf, sondern wird von mal zu mal schlimmer.
Blackfacing, KKK Mitglieder, Beleidigungen und weitere Grausamkeiten machen ihre Zeit in Anderton immer unerträglicher.
Außer ihrer Eltern, hat sie auch niemanden an den sie sich wenden kann, da ihr Direktor keiner ihrer Probleme ernst nimmt und die Polizei sowieso nichts machen würde.
Ab dann fängt Aaleyah mit Hilfe ihrer Freunde an, die Probleme selbst in die Hand zu nehmen und die Stadt und ihre kuriosen Vermisstenfälle und menschenverachtende Einwohner auffliegen zu lassen.
Ich fand das Buch super easy geschrieben und Aaleyah unglaublich mutig und gerissen. Sie ist nicht nur sehr schlau, sondern auch absolut charakterstark.
Es ist leider bis heute schwer gute Repräsentation zu finden, aber Aaleyah bekommt Applaus von mir.
Sie ist sich in ihrer Identität und ihrer Religion so sicher und lässt sich von niemandem was einreden.
Natürlich hat sie auch Zeiten, in denen sie absolut verzweifelt und fertig ist, aber sie rappelt sich immer wieder auf und sucht nach Gerechtigkeit.
Die Bindung zwischen ihr und ihrer Familie fand ich auch mega schön. Ihre Eltern, beide erfolgreich in ihren Feldern, unterstützen sie von Anfang bis Ende und versuchen ihr immer schöne Lehren mitzugeben.
An dem Buch hab ich prinzipiell nur zwei Kritikpunkte:
1. Aaleyah ist wie bereits erwähnt, eine unglaublich mutige Person. Manchmal wurde ihr Mut meiner Meinung nach aber zum Leichtsinn.
In einer Stadt, in der sie sich tagtäglich um ihre Sicherheit sorgen muss, ist sie oft unglaubliche Risiken eingegangen.
2. Ihre zwei Freunde sind absolut toll! Ich lieeeebe sie. Aber dafür, dass sie beide auch POC‘s sind, hätte ich mir gewünscht auch mehr über ihre Erfahrungen und ihre Geschichte zu erfahren. Sie sind eher dafür da, damit die Geschichte fortlaufen kann. Nichtsdestotrotz liebe ich sie :,)
Für alle, die ähnliche Erfahrungen gemacht haben, über eine mutige schwarze/muslimische/POC Charakterin lesen wollen, oder ein spannendes und leicht zu verstehendes Buch lesen möchten, ist das eine klare Empfehlung.
Nachdem Aaleyahs Familie für ein Jahr in die Kleinstadt „Anderton“ zieht, beginnt für sie ein einziger Alptraum.
Als schwarze, bedeckte Muslimah, erfährt Aaleyah von vornherein rassistische und islamophobe Bemerkungen und wird von der ganzen (weißen) Stadt angestarrt.
Die Stadt selbst ist dafür bekannt, dass über die Jahre schwarze Menschen spurlos verschwunden sind, was die ganze Sache nicht besser macht.
Trotz der ekelhaften Bemerkungen lässt sich Aaleyah nicht kleinkriegen und versucht ihren Alltag so schnell wie möglich hinter sich zu bringen.
Einen Teil ihrer Zeit verbringt sie in dem Bücherladen eines alten Herren, der der einzige in der Stadt ist, der sie nicht mit seinen Blicken durchlöchert.
Wie es das Schicksal wo will, lernt sie nach einiger Zeit auch in der Schule die einzigen zwei Personen kennen, die gute Absichten mit ihr haben, mit denen sie sich schnell anfreundet und durch die sie dann in das Schulzeitungsteam aufgenommen wird.
Der Terror hört hier jedoch nicht auf, sondern wird von mal zu mal schlimmer.
Blackfacing, KKK Mitglieder, Beleidigungen und weitere Grausamkeiten machen ihre Zeit in Anderton immer unerträglicher.
Außer ihrer Eltern, hat sie auch niemanden an den sie sich wenden kann, da ihr Direktor keiner ihrer Probleme ernst nimmt und die Polizei sowieso nichts machen würde.
Ab dann fängt Aaleyah mit Hilfe ihrer Freunde an, die Probleme selbst in die Hand zu nehmen und die Stadt und ihre kuriosen Vermisstenfälle und menschenverachtende Einwohner auffliegen zu lassen.
Ich fand das Buch super easy geschrieben und Aaleyah unglaublich mutig und gerissen. Sie ist nicht nur sehr schlau, sondern auch absolut charakterstark.
Es ist leider bis heute schwer gute Repräsentation zu finden, aber Aaleyah bekommt Applaus von mir.
Sie ist sich in ihrer Identität und ihrer Religion so sicher und lässt sich von niemandem was einreden.
Natürlich hat sie auch Zeiten, in denen sie absolut verzweifelt und fertig ist, aber sie rappelt sich immer wieder auf und sucht nach Gerechtigkeit.
Die Bindung zwischen ihr und ihrer Familie fand ich auch mega schön. Ihre Eltern, beide erfolgreich in ihren Feldern, unterstützen sie von Anfang bis Ende und versuchen ihr immer schöne Lehren mitzugeben.
An dem Buch hab ich prinzipiell nur zwei Kritikpunkte:
1. Aaleyah ist wie bereits erwähnt, eine unglaublich mutige Person. Manchmal wurde ihr Mut meiner Meinung nach aber zum Leichtsinn.
In einer Stadt, in der sie sich tagtäglich um ihre Sicherheit sorgen muss, ist sie oft unglaubliche Risiken eingegangen.
2. Ihre zwei Freunde sind absolut toll! Ich lieeeebe sie. Aber dafür, dass sie beide auch POC‘s sind, hätte ich mir gewünscht auch mehr über ihre Erfahrungen und ihre Geschichte zu erfahren. Sie sind eher dafür da, damit die Geschichte fortlaufen kann. Nichtsdestotrotz liebe ich sie :,)
Für alle, die ähnliche Erfahrungen gemacht haben, über eine mutige schwarze/muslimische/POC Charakterin lesen wollen, oder ein spannendes und leicht zu verstehendes Buch lesen möchten, ist das eine klare Empfehlung.
August 9, 2020
Race to the Finish Line by Aisha Yusuf is a YA mystery novel featuring a young Black Muslim girl’s journey navigating and adjusting to her new unexpected environment far away from home. Aalyeah underestimates the dangerous that surround her as her and friends pursue clues to uncover a dark truth.
The twists and turns in this book had me clutching my invisible pearl necklace. The adult me wishes to be transported back in time just to read and experience this book as a teen. As a lover of mystery and thriller books, I have not come across a novel that centres dynamic and diverse characters like Aalyeah, her family, and her friends. The author does not shy away from exploring painful truths of society. She tackles touch subjects in a reader-friendly way, yet doesn’t appease the readers by giving them desired conclusions. The author weaves together a creative tale while preserving the authenticity of the characters and their struggles. Any reader will find themselves quickly getting attached to Aalyeah and her friends and will be heavily invested in realizing their mission.
This book wasn’t around when I was growing up and desperately needed it, but I am happy it exists now. I am excited for readers to get their hands on this insanely relevant and timely book.
The twists and turns in this book had me clutching my invisible pearl necklace. The adult me wishes to be transported back in time just to read and experience this book as a teen. As a lover of mystery and thriller books, I have not come across a novel that centres dynamic and diverse characters like Aalyeah, her family, and her friends. The author does not shy away from exploring painful truths of society. She tackles touch subjects in a reader-friendly way, yet doesn’t appease the readers by giving them desired conclusions. The author weaves together a creative tale while preserving the authenticity of the characters and their struggles. Any reader will find themselves quickly getting attached to Aalyeah and her friends and will be heavily invested in realizing their mission.
This book wasn’t around when I was growing up and desperately needed it, but I am happy it exists now. I am excited for readers to get their hands on this insanely relevant and timely book.
November 16, 2020
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy of this book via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
3/5 stars.
I was initially drawn to this book by the cover. It’s so striking and it tells you exactly what this book is about.
It was a decent read, but it’s not my favourite. I found that I didn’t connect with any of the characters, and the writing style felt more like it was telling me about everything that was happening instead of showing me. Aaleyah was an interesting character, but I found her to be really annoying at some parts. I also didn’t like the way that she interacted with her parents when anything serious had happened. Her parents were concerned and worried about her, and yet she was trying to brush everything off and she would be the one making the decisions about what they would do. It didn’t feel realistic to me.
The mystery aspect was interesting if a little predictable. I did know who the “bad guys” were pretty quickly, and I also figured out what had been happening as well. The way that the characters went about researching and investigating was done well, but it felt like there was a lot of filler of them sitting around and reading articles. It made the book feel as if it was dragging on at times.
Racism is a main theme that is covered in this book. Aaleyah is force to endure serious racism at school and in the new town that she and her family have moved to. It was pretty intense at times, and definitely scary. One thing that made me feel uncomfortable was the way that Aaleyah referred to every single person in her school as a racist. The generalization felt kind of hypocritical because of the racism that Aaleyah was facing, and the way that she explained that she was probably the first Muslim many of these kids had ever met. They were generalizing what they knew about people of her race and religion onto her, and Aaleyah did the same thing to them. I think that the portrayal of racism was raw, horrific, and probably accurate (although I can’t speak about the accuracy for sure), but I would have liked to see Aaleyah and the characters in the school grow as they learned more.
3/5 stars.
I was initially drawn to this book by the cover. It’s so striking and it tells you exactly what this book is about.
It was a decent read, but it’s not my favourite. I found that I didn’t connect with any of the characters, and the writing style felt more like it was telling me about everything that was happening instead of showing me. Aaleyah was an interesting character, but I found her to be really annoying at some parts. I also didn’t like the way that she interacted with her parents when anything serious had happened. Her parents were concerned and worried about her, and yet she was trying to brush everything off and she would be the one making the decisions about what they would do. It didn’t feel realistic to me.
The mystery aspect was interesting if a little predictable. I did know who the “bad guys” were pretty quickly, and I also figured out what had been happening as well. The way that the characters went about researching and investigating was done well, but it felt like there was a lot of filler of them sitting around and reading articles. It made the book feel as if it was dragging on at times.
Racism is a main theme that is covered in this book. Aaleyah is force to endure serious racism at school and in the new town that she and her family have moved to. It was pretty intense at times, and definitely scary. One thing that made me feel uncomfortable was the way that Aaleyah referred to every single person in her school as a racist. The generalization felt kind of hypocritical because of the racism that Aaleyah was facing, and the way that she explained that she was probably the first Muslim many of these kids had ever met. They were generalizing what they knew about people of her race and religion onto her, and Aaleyah did the same thing to them. I think that the portrayal of racism was raw, horrific, and probably accurate (although I can’t speak about the accuracy for sure), but I would have liked to see Aaleyah and the characters in the school grow as they learned more.
August 13, 2020
I'm struggling with how to rate this one. On one hand, I really appreciate that there's a book out there bringing awareness to a culture that is always discriminated against - Black Muslims. However, I just can't get past the choppy writing, the lack of character development, and all of the telling and not showing.
The premise of this book is really interesting - a Black Muslim girl moves with her family from Canada to this small racist town in Arkansas where Black people have gone missing over the past few decades. The kids in her high school are openly racist and the administration doesn't care because they're racist too. She bonds with two friends who help her battle the blatant racism and they find themselves in the middle of a mystery as they start to look into the disappearances over the past years.
My major problem with the book itself is the storytelling. Some things suddenly happened and I'd have to go back to see if I happened to miss a chunk of information. Nope. It just plunged ahead at certain points in the story and barely gave any information about the glazed over parts. So I guess it's not so much telling-not-showing, but outright skipping to the action. This is why it was a choppy reading experience.
Honestly, the foundation of this book is good - I wanted to know more about the history of town, the principal, Mr. Moretti, Garett, Lewis, and why Matthew and Brianna seemed to be the only two non-racist people in the entire high school. But that's exactly my point - I was so interested in some of these characters and plot points and I was just left hanging. What role did her teacher play in the town? What happened to Lewis? How did the operation stay secret for so long? And most importantly, what exactly was the operation?!
And now I need to hit on something that's a spoiler.
Ok rant over.
Overall, if I'm this angry about a plot point and if I was that confused over the choppy writing and jumping from scene to scene, then I just can't give it more than 2 stars, which is honestly a bummer because I think the premise itself had so much potential.
The premise of this book is really interesting - a Black Muslim girl moves with her family from Canada to this small racist town in Arkansas where Black people have gone missing over the past few decades. The kids in her high school are openly racist and the administration doesn't care because they're racist too. She bonds with two friends who help her battle the blatant racism and they find themselves in the middle of a mystery as they start to look into the disappearances over the past years.
My major problem with the book itself is the storytelling. Some things suddenly happened and I'd have to go back to see if I happened to miss a chunk of information. Nope. It just plunged ahead at certain points in the story and barely gave any information about the glazed over parts. So I guess it's not so much telling-not-showing, but outright skipping to the action. This is why it was a choppy reading experience.
Honestly, the foundation of this book is good - I wanted to know more about the history of town, the principal, Mr. Moretti, Garett, Lewis, and why Matthew and Brianna seemed to be the only two non-racist people in the entire high school. But that's exactly my point - I was so interested in some of these characters and plot points and I was just left hanging. What role did her teacher play in the town? What happened to Lewis? How did the operation stay secret for so long? And most importantly, what exactly was the operation?!
And now I need to hit on something that's a spoiler.
Ok rant over.
Overall, if I'm this angry about a plot point and if I was that confused over the choppy writing and jumping from scene to scene, then I just can't give it more than 2 stars, which is honestly a bummer because I think the premise itself had so much potential.
July 29, 2020
Thanks to the publisher for providing an eARC of Race to the Finish Line in exchange for an honest review.
Race to the Finish Line is an ownvoice story about a high school student moving from Canada to a small town in the USA where the KKK is still active and trying to uncover a sinister secret. While I obviously appreciate the anti-racist message and what this book was trying to do, from a literary stand point it just doesn't stand up.
All this book really has going for it is the anti-racism message. Our protagonist has little to know character and neither does anyone else in her life. Everything in this book is told to you instead of shown and you are never allowed to draw your own conclusions. I get the want to expressly say after an act of racism "look. This was bad because it was racist" but often it's in letting the reader come to that conclusion on their own that change is made. A racist isn't going to pick up a book, read the sentence, 'racism is bad' and stop being racist. A non-racist isn't going to pick up the book, read the sentence 'racism is bad' and become an activist.
This book's only strength to me was its message and I truly felt like the actual plot took a back seat to the message. If your book is centered around a theme, you need to allow to reader to reflect upon that theme for themselves. This book just doesn't do that.
Race to the Finish Line is an ownvoice story about a high school student moving from Canada to a small town in the USA where the KKK is still active and trying to uncover a sinister secret. While I obviously appreciate the anti-racist message and what this book was trying to do, from a literary stand point it just doesn't stand up.
All this book really has going for it is the anti-racism message. Our protagonist has little to know character and neither does anyone else in her life. Everything in this book is told to you instead of shown and you are never allowed to draw your own conclusions. I get the want to expressly say after an act of racism "look. This was bad because it was racist" but often it's in letting the reader come to that conclusion on their own that change is made. A racist isn't going to pick up a book, read the sentence, 'racism is bad' and stop being racist. A non-racist isn't going to pick up the book, read the sentence 'racism is bad' and become an activist.
This book's only strength to me was its message and I truly felt like the actual plot took a back seat to the message. If your book is centered around a theme, you need to allow to reader to reflect upon that theme for themselves. This book just doesn't do that.
April 27, 2021
Compassion and curiosity. That is why I bought and read this book.
I had learned of a local young woman who had written a story. She had written during her high school years and submitted to publishers. While reviews were reasonably favorable, none were willing to proceed. She and her sisters decided to self-publish and distribute the book. Believing in yourself and determination to achieve your goals are essential to life in this world. These are attributes I encouraged and applauded in my four children, three of whom were girls (and I must admit all are older than the author of this book). To support these women, I purchased the book.
The author and her sisters are black Muslim women. I am a white Christian. I have absolutely no understanding of life in this city from their perspective. I would like to know more. I thought a story through her eyes might help. So, I read the book.
The author was high school age when the story was developed so I was expecting a young adult reader story. It was. But, dang! It blew me away!
It is a story of outcasts living in an oppressive town, banding together to fight back, identify and bring the corrupt leaders to justice. The feelings of oppression might be felt by many of us at various stages of our lives and this draws us in. But the story is centered on blacks in a town ruled by the KKK. The epitome of oppression! Racism.
Well paced. Well developed. I had to read it to the end! It was good. It was very good.
I had learned of a local young woman who had written a story. She had written during her high school years and submitted to publishers. While reviews were reasonably favorable, none were willing to proceed. She and her sisters decided to self-publish and distribute the book. Believing in yourself and determination to achieve your goals are essential to life in this world. These are attributes I encouraged and applauded in my four children, three of whom were girls (and I must admit all are older than the author of this book). To support these women, I purchased the book.
The author and her sisters are black Muslim women. I am a white Christian. I have absolutely no understanding of life in this city from their perspective. I would like to know more. I thought a story through her eyes might help. So, I read the book.
The author was high school age when the story was developed so I was expecting a young adult reader story. It was. But, dang! It blew me away!
It is a story of outcasts living in an oppressive town, banding together to fight back, identify and bring the corrupt leaders to justice. The feelings of oppression might be felt by many of us at various stages of our lives and this draws us in. But the story is centered on blacks in a town ruled by the KKK. The epitome of oppression! Racism.
Well paced. Well developed. I had to read it to the end! It was good. It was very good.
July 29, 2020
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4
This book was so unique and I loved reading about a diverse character. The book was kind of predictable, but I was still on the edge of my seat wanting to know how much worse it could get for our character. It was amazing to read about such a strong, young, female character and all the other characters were fleshed out very well. I would recommend this!
Rating: 4
This book was so unique and I loved reading about a diverse character. The book was kind of predictable, but I was still on the edge of my seat wanting to know how much worse it could get for our character. It was amazing to read about such a strong, young, female character and all the other characters were fleshed out very well. I would recommend this!
August 9, 2020
“I found it funny that in a place where we were supposed to be educated was the place I saw the most ignorance. The irony.”
An extremely powerful and crucial story about a young Black Muslim girl that must navigate her newly realty of moving to a small town in America with a heavy KKK presence. With the help of her friends, Aliyah investigates and reveals the dark secrets that new home has been hiding.
As a Black Muslim educator and adult, I can strongly say that I have never seen a book of this calibre. The mystery in this book was an especially jarring experience to read as it is the current realities of our society, human trafficking, and the disappearance of young black kids.
This book at times will leave you feeling very heavy and sombre as it systemically breaks down the perpetual violence of racism, Islamophobia, and xenophobia. It will also leave you feeling grateful and inspired in the many lighthearted moments that will make you chuckle appreciating the strength of Aalyeah.
Despite the deep and relevant nature of this book, it was a pleasure to accompany Aalyeah and her friends Brianna and Mathew on their rollercoaster investigative journey. The unexpected ending is a fitting conclusion to an epic and memorable narrative.
Now as an educator and looking for relevant books to add to my classroom, I wonder how transformative it would have been for me as a young teen to read a book where my existence is portrayed as strong, fierce and intelligent. Rating this book 5 stars does not do it justice but for now
I will be rating it as such. I will be strongly recommending this book!
An extremely powerful and crucial story about a young Black Muslim girl that must navigate her newly realty of moving to a small town in America with a heavy KKK presence. With the help of her friends, Aliyah investigates and reveals the dark secrets that new home has been hiding.
As a Black Muslim educator and adult, I can strongly say that I have never seen a book of this calibre. The mystery in this book was an especially jarring experience to read as it is the current realities of our society, human trafficking, and the disappearance of young black kids.
This book at times will leave you feeling very heavy and sombre as it systemically breaks down the perpetual violence of racism, Islamophobia, and xenophobia. It will also leave you feeling grateful and inspired in the many lighthearted moments that will make you chuckle appreciating the strength of Aalyeah.
Despite the deep and relevant nature of this book, it was a pleasure to accompany Aalyeah and her friends Brianna and Mathew on their rollercoaster investigative journey. The unexpected ending is a fitting conclusion to an epic and memorable narrative.
Now as an educator and looking for relevant books to add to my classroom, I wonder how transformative it would have been for me as a young teen to read a book where my existence is portrayed as strong, fierce and intelligent. Rating this book 5 stars does not do it justice but for now
I will be rating it as such. I will be strongly recommending this book!
February 10, 2021
Knowing and having met the author personally, made me read this book with a whole new light.
Although, it was partially a critical light.. Having bought the book pre-release, I found mistakes here and there.
However the story line was actually really good and my admiration for the author has grown.
I understand now how hard it is to even put a proper storyline together let alone format, edit and perfect the inner details of a book.
Although, it was partially a critical light.. Having bought the book pre-release, I found mistakes here and there.
However the story line was actually really good and my admiration for the author has grown.
I understand now how hard it is to even put a proper storyline together let alone format, edit and perfect the inner details of a book.
March 11, 2021
This book kept me on my toes throughout the novel. It allowed for me to really understand the depths of what racism can look like for our Black counterparts. I loved how the main character was such a strong female Muslim lead, it really allowed for me to connect with her character throughout the novel! Job well done :)
October 10, 2020
I didn't know what to expect reading this book, but I really enjoyed it. It was very different and the plot was intriguing. Had me on the edge of my seat! Very different than what you would expect. Highly recommend!
Read
February 3, 2021This book is absolutely amazing. The fact that 3 kids face and fight against a group of KKK members.
This book is the best book that I have read I was so intrigued that teenagers were standing up to grown men.
This book is the best book that I have read I was so intrigued that teenagers were standing up to grown men.
October 30, 2020
Race To The Finish Line is one of those books where the cover instantly jumped out and made me want to learn more about it; there are probably few covers as instantly grabbing as a Black Muslim girl standing up to a member of the KKK, especially in 2020. When I discovered that the author is herself a young Muslim woman of colour, and that she was choosing to write about life as a member of that demographic in the US, I was instantly on board.
The book follows Aaleyah, a seventeen-year-old Black Muslim girl living in Canada with her family. When her father gets a new job in the US Aaleyah and her parents move to the town of Anderton, Arkansas. Upon arriving Aaleyah is shocked to find that the town is more then 90% white, and incredibly racist. She's subjected to stares in public, muttered insults, and full blown verbal assault at school. And this is only the beginning of the abuse that she receives. Digging into the town history she discovers that there's an alarming trend of missing persons reports for minorities in Anderton. Teaming up with her two new friends, Brianna and Matthew, she sets out to dig into this past, all whilst trying to survive the racists that infest the town.
I have to be honest, at first I wasn't sure what to think of the book due to the writing style. The lead character is in her teens, yet the writing often felt like it was aimed at a younger audience. This was largely due to the simplicity of a number of the scenes, the way that Yusuf would gloss over certain details and jump around the narrative very quickly, not giving events a chance to breath before moving on to the next. For the first few chapters I was unsure if I liked the book or not.
However, once Aaleyah reached her school things changed. Suddenly events were a lot more interesting, the things that Aaleyah was experiencing had me on the edge of my seat, and the faster pace began to work a lot better. It felt like I'd found the meat of the story, and the first few chapters were Yusuf quickly getting through the set-up so that she could focus on the important stuff.
This part of the book wasn't exactly enjoyable, because I don't think you could ever class this kind of story as enjoyable, but it was certainly grabbing. Yusuf didn't shy away from showing the realities of the racism and Islamophobia that Aaleyah faces. There are times where she is verbally attacked, complete with racial slurs, physical assaults, vandalism, and appearances from the KKK. This is a book that will test you, it will make you feel angry and on edge, it could even hurt you, because despite being a work of fiction this is a very real story.
It's a sad thing that this kind of story isn't relegated to the past, but is still happening today. The Ku Klux Klan are active across the US, Black people are murdered by white supremacists and cops (with the two often indistinguishable), and the Black community have had to take to the streets in protest across the world to demand equality and justice. The way that minorities are treated in the US is fucking abhorrent, and this book doesn't shy away from that.
I don't know what it's like to be treated differently because of the colour of your skin, to face such vile hatred simply because you look different. I can't understand how hard this kind of thing must be for people like Aaleyah, like Aisha Yusuf. I experience some discrimination because I'm a disabled trans woman, but I know that what I face is a far cry from what Black people in the US suffer through every single day, where you honestly don't know if you're about to be murdered or not if a cop stops you. I don't understand how someone can live with that kind of pressure and hatred thrown at them and remain so strong and so compassionate, and even after reading this book I still don't get it.
Reading Race To The Finish Line made me angry at time. It made me so fucking angry that this is daily reality for some people, and for so many people. It made my heart race as the anger and despair of that kind of life washed over me, and it had me close to tears. This might just be a fictional story, but it's also a window into the lives of so many people, people whose only crime is the colour of their skin.
Race To The Finish Line might not be the most polished book I've ever read, and there might have been moments where I wish things were done differently in the narrative, but it's also a book that moved me. It had a hell of an impact on me, and is one that I know is going to stick in my head for a long while. I know racism can be a scary subject for white people, it can be something that you don't want to admit is as bad as it is, something that still has such a stranglehold on society, but it's important that you at the very least start to look at it. We can't make things better if we just bury our heads in the sand and pretend it's not happening. If the news is too scary, if real life accounts are too awful to get you engaged, start with this book, and learn a little of what it's like to have to live with that hanging over your head everyday. A must read.
More book reviews available at www.trans--scribe.blogspot.com
The book follows Aaleyah, a seventeen-year-old Black Muslim girl living in Canada with her family. When her father gets a new job in the US Aaleyah and her parents move to the town of Anderton, Arkansas. Upon arriving Aaleyah is shocked to find that the town is more then 90% white, and incredibly racist. She's subjected to stares in public, muttered insults, and full blown verbal assault at school. And this is only the beginning of the abuse that she receives. Digging into the town history she discovers that there's an alarming trend of missing persons reports for minorities in Anderton. Teaming up with her two new friends, Brianna and Matthew, she sets out to dig into this past, all whilst trying to survive the racists that infest the town.
I have to be honest, at first I wasn't sure what to think of the book due to the writing style. The lead character is in her teens, yet the writing often felt like it was aimed at a younger audience. This was largely due to the simplicity of a number of the scenes, the way that Yusuf would gloss over certain details and jump around the narrative very quickly, not giving events a chance to breath before moving on to the next. For the first few chapters I was unsure if I liked the book or not.
However, once Aaleyah reached her school things changed. Suddenly events were a lot more interesting, the things that Aaleyah was experiencing had me on the edge of my seat, and the faster pace began to work a lot better. It felt like I'd found the meat of the story, and the first few chapters were Yusuf quickly getting through the set-up so that she could focus on the important stuff.
This part of the book wasn't exactly enjoyable, because I don't think you could ever class this kind of story as enjoyable, but it was certainly grabbing. Yusuf didn't shy away from showing the realities of the racism and Islamophobia that Aaleyah faces. There are times where she is verbally attacked, complete with racial slurs, physical assaults, vandalism, and appearances from the KKK. This is a book that will test you, it will make you feel angry and on edge, it could even hurt you, because despite being a work of fiction this is a very real story.
It's a sad thing that this kind of story isn't relegated to the past, but is still happening today. The Ku Klux Klan are active across the US, Black people are murdered by white supremacists and cops (with the two often indistinguishable), and the Black community have had to take to the streets in protest across the world to demand equality and justice. The way that minorities are treated in the US is fucking abhorrent, and this book doesn't shy away from that.
I don't know what it's like to be treated differently because of the colour of your skin, to face such vile hatred simply because you look different. I can't understand how hard this kind of thing must be for people like Aaleyah, like Aisha Yusuf. I experience some discrimination because I'm a disabled trans woman, but I know that what I face is a far cry from what Black people in the US suffer through every single day, where you honestly don't know if you're about to be murdered or not if a cop stops you. I don't understand how someone can live with that kind of pressure and hatred thrown at them and remain so strong and so compassionate, and even after reading this book I still don't get it.
Reading Race To The Finish Line made me angry at time. It made me so fucking angry that this is daily reality for some people, and for so many people. It made my heart race as the anger and despair of that kind of life washed over me, and it had me close to tears. This might just be a fictional story, but it's also a window into the lives of so many people, people whose only crime is the colour of their skin.
Race To The Finish Line might not be the most polished book I've ever read, and there might have been moments where I wish things were done differently in the narrative, but it's also a book that moved me. It had a hell of an impact on me, and is one that I know is going to stick in my head for a long while. I know racism can be a scary subject for white people, it can be something that you don't want to admit is as bad as it is, something that still has such a stranglehold on society, but it's important that you at the very least start to look at it. We can't make things better if we just bury our heads in the sand and pretend it's not happening. If the news is too scary, if real life accounts are too awful to get you engaged, start with this book, and learn a little of what it's like to have to live with that hanging over your head everyday. A must read.
More book reviews available at www.trans--scribe.blogspot.com
October 22, 2020
Race To The Finish Line is all in all a good read with some important themes such as small town racism, exclusion, Islamophobia, and human trafficking. The book seems to be marketed towards a YA public, but I think middle schoolers will definitely appreciate it too, and the overall tone would also work for a younger and older audience. I know I would have appreciated this novel as a kid and a young adult!
Aaleyah is about to enter her senior year in high school in Canada when her parents announce that they will be moving to a small town in Arkansas, USA for a year, because of her father’s job. Aaleyah’s main concern about moving lies in the fact that she is both Black and Muslim, and is worried about how she will be treated in the US. Her fears are very much confirmed when they arrive, as not only are there barely any Black families in the town, there are barely any families of color there at all. She is stared down, insulted, ignored, and called a terrorist during her first day at school, and it only starts to get a bit better for her once she makes friends with a couple of other seniors in the journalism club. But things are about to get a lot worse when the three friends uncover some deeply disturbing town secrets…
This book is like a modern day Nancy Drew meets (not so gratuitously violent) Jack Reacher but with real, well-rounded characters. Aaleyah is a regular teen who loves her friends, coffee, driving around, food, singing full force along to her favorite songs, boxing, and asking questions about everything. She is also a practicing Muslim and wears a hijab, like millions of other Muslim teens in North America, but it isn’t the main part of her identity. What I really, really appreciated about Aaleyah as a character is that she is a completely normal teen but she is also a teen that is rarely represented in books, movies or TV shows. More of this please!
Some of the pacing in the novel felt a little rushed, and I would have loved to have dived a little more into the human trafficking part of the novel, as well as some of the other characters who felt a little underdeveloped, and there were a few loose ends here and there (where did the English teacher fit into the network of villains?), but all in all it was a good read, with some great themes, a really strong and loveable main character, and a good mystery that made it kind of unputdownable!
I can’t wait to see what else Aisha Yusuf has up her sleeve!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Aaleyah is about to enter her senior year in high school in Canada when her parents announce that they will be moving to a small town in Arkansas, USA for a year, because of her father’s job. Aaleyah’s main concern about moving lies in the fact that she is both Black and Muslim, and is worried about how she will be treated in the US. Her fears are very much confirmed when they arrive, as not only are there barely any Black families in the town, there are barely any families of color there at all. She is stared down, insulted, ignored, and called a terrorist during her first day at school, and it only starts to get a bit better for her once she makes friends with a couple of other seniors in the journalism club. But things are about to get a lot worse when the three friends uncover some deeply disturbing town secrets…
This book is like a modern day Nancy Drew meets (not so gratuitously violent) Jack Reacher but with real, well-rounded characters. Aaleyah is a regular teen who loves her friends, coffee, driving around, food, singing full force along to her favorite songs, boxing, and asking questions about everything. She is also a practicing Muslim and wears a hijab, like millions of other Muslim teens in North America, but it isn’t the main part of her identity. What I really, really appreciated about Aaleyah as a character is that she is a completely normal teen but she is also a teen that is rarely represented in books, movies or TV shows. More of this please!
Some of the pacing in the novel felt a little rushed, and I would have loved to have dived a little more into the human trafficking part of the novel, as well as some of the other characters who felt a little underdeveloped, and there were a few loose ends here and there (where did the English teacher fit into the network of villains?), but all in all it was a good read, with some great themes, a really strong and loveable main character, and a good mystery that made it kind of unputdownable!
I can’t wait to see what else Aisha Yusuf has up her sleeve!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 6, 2020
*𝙄 𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙡𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧'𝙨 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙉𝙚𝙩𝙜𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙪𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬. 𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙬𝙣*
𝗖𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿: The cover is direct, colorful, and attention-grabbing. I think it would be hard for anyone to see this book over and to not immediately want to read it or at least skim through the pages. The cover alone piqued my interest and had me eager to read this book.
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: Flat, lacked true development, and disappointing. The character development was a huge let down. They lacked depth all throughout. The reader is told about the impact of interactions more than actually seeing it. Even the lead character's relationship with her parents and brother fell flat despite it being written that she is close to them. I didn't have a connection with any of the characters, which made me not really care about them. Usually, you expect to be rooting for at least one character if not more or to strongly dislike a character. None of that happened.
Also, I have to say that as a POC, I am confused by the author's poor development of the only other non-racist people. I believe they were possibly Latinx and Asian, and were the main character's friends in the racist town where they also had the misfortune of moving to. The author also missed am opportunity to introduce local characters who could actually talk about their experiences as a way to compare the experiences of other black people with that of Black Muslims.
𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁: I get the many points that the author was intending to convey. The plot was amazing, but poorly developed. The writing was underwhelming. No matter how much I read, I never really cared about the "mystery" and undercover operations.
𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆: I really wish the writing would have corresponded with the amazing cover. I wanted so badly to love this book because of its message. The more I read, the more disappointed I felt and eventually could myself location/page checking to see how much longer I had to go before I reached the end (that is never a good sign). I think that if the author went back and developed the characters and setting more, improved the depth of the interactions so the author gets to experience them with the characters more versus being told by a character about it in a reflective way, and strengthened the character interactions so that they actually propel the story forward, then this could be a really good book. The potential is there.
𝗖𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿: The cover is direct, colorful, and attention-grabbing. I think it would be hard for anyone to see this book over and to not immediately want to read it or at least skim through the pages. The cover alone piqued my interest and had me eager to read this book.
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: Flat, lacked true development, and disappointing. The character development was a huge let down. They lacked depth all throughout. The reader is told about the impact of interactions more than actually seeing it. Even the lead character's relationship with her parents and brother fell flat despite it being written that she is close to them. I didn't have a connection with any of the characters, which made me not really care about them. Usually, you expect to be rooting for at least one character if not more or to strongly dislike a character. None of that happened.
Also, I have to say that as a POC, I am confused by the author's poor development of the only other non-racist people. I believe they were possibly Latinx and Asian, and were the main character's friends in the racist town where they also had the misfortune of moving to. The author also missed am opportunity to introduce local characters who could actually talk about their experiences as a way to compare the experiences of other black people with that of Black Muslims.
𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁: I get the many points that the author was intending to convey. The plot was amazing, but poorly developed. The writing was underwhelming. No matter how much I read, I never really cared about the "mystery" and undercover operations.
𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆: I really wish the writing would have corresponded with the amazing cover. I wanted so badly to love this book because of its message. The more I read, the more disappointed I felt and eventually could myself location/page checking to see how much longer I had to go before I reached the end (that is never a good sign). I think that if the author went back and developed the characters and setting more, improved the depth of the interactions so the author gets to experience them with the characters more versus being told by a character about it in a reflective way, and strengthened the character interactions so that they actually propel the story forward, then this could be a really good book. The potential is there.
August 6, 2020
I received a Netgalley e-arc of "Race to the Finish Line" by Aisha Yusuf in exchange for an honest review. Some parts of this review will contain spoilers, but I will mark those parts accordingly.
Things I loved:
The setting was strong and it was easy to visualize the events taking place in the different locations.
The majority of characters were well written and interesting.
The strong theme and how the story was constantly focused.
The mystery/investigation into the disappearance of Lewis.
Things I wasn't crazy about:
The pace: My only criticism of this book was the pacing of it.
Note: I was reading this arc off my phone so that could have impacted the layout.
There were a few times where I was confused about what was happening as there appeared to be no clear marker of a change in scene or paragraph. (Again, this could very well be down to the phone.)
SPOILERS AHEAD.
For example: When the gang decide to break into Liam's apartment. It seemed to jump to this scene rather suddenly, which would have been fine with a little more context. Liam was the only character I felt needed a little bit more work. He appeared to be a threat for so long, but then it turns out he's an undercover cop investigating this town. Which was a good twist! But I was waiting for him to turn on them again, because he was so sketchy throughout the rest of the book.
Another minor note I have is, I wanted to know what happened to Lewis. I was thinking we might get a better sense of what happened to him after he disappeared once the FBI got involved, but we were merely told he's probably dead. This is very much the case with a lot of victims of trafficking, so I do understand why the author did it, but Lewis' story had such an impact on the main characters and it would have been nice to find out if they got the closure they needed and Lewis got the justice he deserved.
SPOILER FREE ZONE HERE
Other than that, I really enjoyed this book. It had great addictive quality and dealt with some very important topics, such as racism, Islamophobia, and trafficking. It's an easy read and the main characters are a lovely little group that are easy to get attached to.
Things I loved:
The setting was strong and it was easy to visualize the events taking place in the different locations.
The majority of characters were well written and interesting.
The strong theme and how the story was constantly focused.
The mystery/investigation into the disappearance of Lewis.
Things I wasn't crazy about:
The pace: My only criticism of this book was the pacing of it.
Note: I was reading this arc off my phone so that could have impacted the layout.
There were a few times where I was confused about what was happening as there appeared to be no clear marker of a change in scene or paragraph. (Again, this could very well be down to the phone.)
SPOILERS AHEAD.
For example: When the gang decide to break into Liam's apartment. It seemed to jump to this scene rather suddenly, which would have been fine with a little more context. Liam was the only character I felt needed a little bit more work. He appeared to be a threat for so long, but then it turns out he's an undercover cop investigating this town. Which was a good twist! But I was waiting for him to turn on them again, because he was so sketchy throughout the rest of the book.
Another minor note I have is, I wanted to know what happened to Lewis. I was thinking we might get a better sense of what happened to him after he disappeared once the FBI got involved, but we were merely told he's probably dead. This is very much the case with a lot of victims of trafficking, so I do understand why the author did it, but Lewis' story had such an impact on the main characters and it would have been nice to find out if they got the closure they needed and Lewis got the justice he deserved.
SPOILER FREE ZONE HERE
Other than that, I really enjoyed this book. It had great addictive quality and dealt with some very important topics, such as racism, Islamophobia, and trafficking. It's an easy read and the main characters are a lovely little group that are easy to get attached to.
November 30, 2020
I had an opportunity to read a copy of Race to the Finish Line through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was first intrigued to read the novel based on its book cover. I must say the story was just as good. This debut title by Aisha Yusuf was relevant, fast-paced, and mysterious. I would rate this five stars even though there were aspects in which you had to suspend belief such as the town being that utterly racist and the main character's too lax parents. I can understand giving your child room to grow, but these kids had way too much freedom. But as with all fictional mysteries, especially ones in which the protagonists are teens, don't you have to give some leeway to the plausibility of the events happening in real life? With that said, I enjoyed the storyline which was about Aaleyah, a teenage girl in her senior year of high school, suddenly finding herself uprooted from her native Canada because of her father's job to a small southern town in Arkansas in which the natives are definitely not welcoming to a black Muslim girl. She learns early on that for years blacks have mysteriously disappeared without a trace and no investigations by the local authorities. During a club fair, she happens upon the two other black students at her school who happen to run the school newspaper. They quickly form a bond and the three find themselves on a quest to solve the town's mystery. The story is written to always keeps you guessing as they uncover new clues. As I stated earlier it is well-paced. I also like that although the main character is black and Muslim, that is not the story. And the author doesn't try to make it a big deal, but just seamlessly weaves her identity with her everyday mundane actions. She does that with the other black characters too. There is no big to-to about what they looked liked with all the "cafe-latte" and "cocoa" colored skin and wavy or wiry hair descriptions that many authors make a point of doing. That was very refreshing. I look forward to seeing the author pen more young adult fiction.
August 11, 2020
I want to thank Aisha Yusuf and NetGalley for an advanced readers' copy of Race to the Finish Line in exchange for an honest review. When I first read the synopsis of this book, I was immediately pulled it. However, this book exceeded every expectation that I had for it.
I want to first say that I loved these character so much. Aalyeah was smart, spunky, resourceful, and strongwilled. She was everything that I wanted to read about in a YA character. I also adored her friends, Brianna and Matthew. My only wish was that Aalyeah's brother played a larger role in the book so that it would have been that more meaningful when he was used as bait for the FBI.
For the last third of this book, I was completely on the edge of my seat. Everything was fast paced but it felt natural. While I cannot speak entirely on the discussion surrounding racism, as I am not a woman of color, I found it brutally honest. While it was hard to face at times, I think it was necessary. I also was extremely surprised by the discussion of human trafficking in this book. It is becoming a huge issue in our world today, but there are not a ton of books that center on it, ESPECIALLY children/young adult books when I think that they may need this information the most.
My one issue with this book was Aalyeah's relationship with her parents. They seemed extremely close and some moments were very sweet to glimpse like their sleepover after Aalyeah does not want to be left alone. However, there are moments where her parents felt very flat and simply there as a reminder that Aalyeah is so young. Her mom is a lawyer, but allows Aalyeah to make the calls on how to handle their vandalized car - which is ultimately to drop it. There is also another moment in the book where they are sitting (Aalyeah is in her senior year - by the way) and Aalyeah just comes to learn what her father does for work. She is able to pretty much figure out an entire human trafficking ring, but not what her father does for a living which moved her to her racist new town in the first place. I would have just liked to see a lot more development with her parents.
I want to first say that I loved these character so much. Aalyeah was smart, spunky, resourceful, and strongwilled. She was everything that I wanted to read about in a YA character. I also adored her friends, Brianna and Matthew. My only wish was that Aalyeah's brother played a larger role in the book so that it would have been that more meaningful when he was used as bait for the FBI.
For the last third of this book, I was completely on the edge of my seat. Everything was fast paced but it felt natural. While I cannot speak entirely on the discussion surrounding racism, as I am not a woman of color, I found it brutally honest. While it was hard to face at times, I think it was necessary. I also was extremely surprised by the discussion of human trafficking in this book. It is becoming a huge issue in our world today, but there are not a ton of books that center on it, ESPECIALLY children/young adult books when I think that they may need this information the most.
My one issue with this book was Aalyeah's relationship with her parents. They seemed extremely close and some moments were very sweet to glimpse like their sleepover after Aalyeah does not want to be left alone. However, there are moments where her parents felt very flat and simply there as a reminder that Aalyeah is so young. Her mom is a lawyer, but allows Aalyeah to make the calls on how to handle their vandalized car - which is ultimately to drop it. There is also another moment in the book where they are sitting (Aalyeah is in her senior year - by the way) and Aalyeah just comes to learn what her father does for work. She is able to pretty much figure out an entire human trafficking ring, but not what her father does for a living which moved her to her racist new town in the first place. I would have just liked to see a lot more development with her parents.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2020
After finishing this book, I was so overwhelmed with so many different emotions. I was not prepared to leave Aaleyah's world.
The main character Aaleyah's bravery and intelligence is so refreshing to witness. Aaleyah's intuition is sharp, and I found myself trusting the people she was trusting, and shaking my head at certain characters she felt strongly repulsed by. I did not see the twists and turns that had me rocking on the edge of my seat. And I was definitely not expecting the betrayal Aaleyah faces in chapter 28, and once again showing what a champion she is, by focusing on the mission.
At times this book took my breath away. The author did a remarkable job when she gets into detail in certain scenes. I found myself tearing up, slamming the book shut, and unable to unplug and jump off the roller coaster. You can vividly watch each detail she brushes, as the story boards on the plane and takes off! As a Black woman, I particularly appreciated the vibrant and vulnerable way the author unpacks what Aaleyah is going through in the bathroom scene.
I would like to thank the Author Aisha Yusuf for this beautiful, heartwarming, realistic, mystery-packed book. I can confidently say I’ve never read a book like this, where these topics are hardly ever discussed, and the way it was tackled. It felt inclusive relating to Aaleyah's worries and seeing the deep friendships she develops. The relationship she has with her family and watching her grow from start to finish. I love that she’s fiery, balanced with her wittiness.
This book is outstanding, especially now— with the way the world is progressing. The representations are rock solid. You can tell the Author steered clear from normalized racial cliches. Finally, a book like this exists, with an epic mesmerizing cover!
The main character Aaleyah's bravery and intelligence is so refreshing to witness. Aaleyah's intuition is sharp, and I found myself trusting the people she was trusting, and shaking my head at certain characters she felt strongly repulsed by. I did not see the twists and turns that had me rocking on the edge of my seat. And I was definitely not expecting the betrayal Aaleyah faces in chapter 28, and once again showing what a champion she is, by focusing on the mission.
At times this book took my breath away. The author did a remarkable job when she gets into detail in certain scenes. I found myself tearing up, slamming the book shut, and unable to unplug and jump off the roller coaster. You can vividly watch each detail she brushes, as the story boards on the plane and takes off! As a Black woman, I particularly appreciated the vibrant and vulnerable way the author unpacks what Aaleyah is going through in the bathroom scene.
I would like to thank the Author Aisha Yusuf for this beautiful, heartwarming, realistic, mystery-packed book. I can confidently say I’ve never read a book like this, where these topics are hardly ever discussed, and the way it was tackled. It felt inclusive relating to Aaleyah's worries and seeing the deep friendships she develops. The relationship she has with her family and watching her grow from start to finish. I love that she’s fiery, balanced with her wittiness.
This book is outstanding, especially now— with the way the world is progressing. The representations are rock solid. You can tell the Author steered clear from normalized racial cliches. Finally, a book like this exists, with an epic mesmerizing cover!
September 28, 2023
This book begins with a really interesting premise, and it has an interesting background story. The author was 22 years old when she wrote it, and is of Somali Canadian extraction. Determined to get her story out, after initial rejections she choose to self publish. Her achievement is commendable.
So, first to the contents of the book. Aaleyah is a strong willed girl who moves with her family from Canada to a small town in the US for a one year period, for her father's job. In the last year of High School, she nevertheless adapts as well as can be expected to the move.
But what is unexpected is the degree of racism that she experiences at her new school. It is not only the students but also the teachers who could not care less about the toxic environment.
Only two students there - who are both themselves from POC backgrounds - are friendly to the MC. And to make matters worse, there is a history of black people disappearing from the town, which does not seem to be given much attention.
We have here the makings of a riveting plot, but the execution leaves something to be desired. It is partly the age of the writer that is likely to be responsible for the degree of telling versus showing on display. The character development is also somewhat uneven, with the female MC not just taking centre stage, but almost taking up the entire stage, at the expense of other characters.
On the other hand, it is great to see a story like this, featuring such an unusual idea and storyline. Even better when the spunky and wilful MC also happens to wear a hijab! I look forward to seeing what the author comes up with next, because despite some shortcomings, this is certainly a promising start to her writing career. I give it 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 for effort and originality.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review
So, first to the contents of the book. Aaleyah is a strong willed girl who moves with her family from Canada to a small town in the US for a one year period, for her father's job. In the last year of High School, she nevertheless adapts as well as can be expected to the move.
But what is unexpected is the degree of racism that she experiences at her new school. It is not only the students but also the teachers who could not care less about the toxic environment.
Only two students there - who are both themselves from POC backgrounds - are friendly to the MC. And to make matters worse, there is a history of black people disappearing from the town, which does not seem to be given much attention.
We have here the makings of a riveting plot, but the execution leaves something to be desired. It is partly the age of the writer that is likely to be responsible for the degree of telling versus showing on display. The character development is also somewhat uneven, with the female MC not just taking centre stage, but almost taking up the entire stage, at the expense of other characters.
On the other hand, it is great to see a story like this, featuring such an unusual idea and storyline. Even better when the spunky and wilful MC also happens to wear a hijab! I look forward to seeing what the author comes up with next, because despite some shortcomings, this is certainly a promising start to her writing career. I give it 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 for effort and originality.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review
February 23, 2024
This exciting young adult mystery novel tells the story of Aaleyah Ahmed, a brave and unique character who stands up against hate and fights to uncover a dangerous secret.
Synopsis:
.Aaleyah had big plans for her senior year, but her father's job forces her to move to a small town she's never heard of. There, she and her friends discover a dark history that threatens their safety. Determined to uncover the truth, they dig deeper, but they find more than they bargained for. Everyone in town seems to be hiding something, and Aaleyah and her friends are in over their heads. But they refuse to back down. As they get closer to the truth, Aaleyah shows incredible courage and determination.
This book is a thrilling page-turner that explores important themes like bravery, loyalty, and the importance of seeking the truth.
My thoughts:
I love how Aaleyah's character challenges social norms and stereotypes, making her a relatable and inspiring protagonist. Aisha Yusuf’s vivid descriptions of the small town and its secrets kept me on the edge of my seat. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a compelling and meaningful read that will keep them guessing until the very end.
Synopsis:
.Aaleyah had big plans for her senior year, but her father's job forces her to move to a small town she's never heard of. There, she and her friends discover a dark history that threatens their safety. Determined to uncover the truth, they dig deeper, but they find more than they bargained for. Everyone in town seems to be hiding something, and Aaleyah and her friends are in over their heads. But they refuse to back down. As they get closer to the truth, Aaleyah shows incredible courage and determination.
This book is a thrilling page-turner that explores important themes like bravery, loyalty, and the importance of seeking the truth.
My thoughts:
I love how Aaleyah's character challenges social norms and stereotypes, making her a relatable and inspiring protagonist. Aisha Yusuf’s vivid descriptions of the small town and its secrets kept me on the edge of my seat. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a compelling and meaningful read that will keep them guessing until the very end.
October 10, 2020
2.5 ✨
It hurts to type this but this book was alll over the place. It sucks because I was so excited for this cover, the premise, the representation.... and yet it fell flat.
I appreciated the review of hard hitting topics - racism, Islamophobia, black face, sex trafficking, mental health - but I don’t think the author fully delved into these topics. Everything seemed jumbled together and then at times a few of these topics were explored a little more deeply.
Sadly, the mystery part of the story wasn’t interesting or intriguing. It was quite predictable but still had me side eyeing the end of the story.
Why did we have to guess the ethnicity of Alyeah’s friends? I can only assume that they were Latinx and Asian American but could never fully confirm that in the book.
Overall, I do want to commend Yusuf’s effort on their debut novel. I hope Aisha continues to write stories with Black Muslim characters!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an early eARC of this book. I’m grateful for the opportunity to review it.
May 14, 2021
First, I want to say congratulations to Aisha Yusuf for her first book titled “Race to the Finish Line”! Her and her sisters launched their own publishing company here in Edmonton called Abayo House. It’s great to see more Black excellence in our city!
It’s refreshing to read a YA novel featuring a young, Black Muslim girl learning about her self and the world around her. The novel kicks off with Aaleyah and her family moving from Canada to a small town in the US, and discovering not all is what it seems. I really found myself on edge to find out what would happen next, and I really related to Aaleyah’s character - she doesn’t back down from what she thinks is right, and stands up for herself ✊🏾 I also really enjoyed the chapter between herself and her English teacher arguing about an book essay, and what the book meant from the eyes of a Black person vs. a White man. No spoilers, but it had me going, “TELL HIM, AALEYAH” the whole time 🙌🏾
To purchase this book, check out The Glass Bookshop or Abayo House. Support local!
It’s refreshing to read a YA novel featuring a young, Black Muslim girl learning about her self and the world around her. The novel kicks off with Aaleyah and her family moving from Canada to a small town in the US, and discovering not all is what it seems. I really found myself on edge to find out what would happen next, and I really related to Aaleyah’s character - she doesn’t back down from what she thinks is right, and stands up for herself ✊🏾 I also really enjoyed the chapter between herself and her English teacher arguing about an book essay, and what the book meant from the eyes of a Black person vs. a White man. No spoilers, but it had me going, “TELL HIM, AALEYAH” the whole time 🙌🏾
To purchase this book, check out The Glass Bookshop or Abayo House. Support local!
August 24, 2020
Race To The Finish Line tackled many issues about race and religion and the KKK. Aaleyah and her Mum and Dad move to a small town in America from Canada for her Dad's work. Her brother stays in Canada as he is going to University. When Aaleyah starts high school something doesn't feel right for her about the place. When Club day happens Aaleyah joins the journalism club and they welcome her with open arms, as another member of the non-white community. Aaleyah is subjected to severe racial abuse which is horrific. Aaleyah fights back though with Mathew and Brianna. They embark on a journey to discover what happened to Lewis Mathew and Brianna's friend, who was kidnapped, as part of a national competition. The results of their findings are shocking. Overall a really well written book and an amazing captivating plot.
March 6, 2021
It's 2am. I basically sat down with Race To The Finish Line and didn't get up. It's intense. My palms were sweaty as I knew what could happen to Aaleyah as she navigated her new home and school. I wanted to jump into the story and be by her side. Luckily I didn't have to as she was blessed with two awesome sidekicks.
This story has it all. A badass female lead, two loyal friends, humor, suspense, and a good old mystery with twists I didn't expect. I made reference to Nancy Drew and Scooby-Doo in my head and smiled when characters in the book did the same.
It's hard on your emotions, but not hard to physically read. Though I do feel like it's impact will linger with me for a long time.
I bought a copy for my teenage niece and am glad I did. Everyone should read this. It may be a fiction, but in reality, it's all too real.
This story has it all. A badass female lead, two loyal friends, humor, suspense, and a good old mystery with twists I didn't expect. I made reference to Nancy Drew and Scooby-Doo in my head and smiled when characters in the book did the same.
It's hard on your emotions, but not hard to physically read. Though I do feel like it's impact will linger with me for a long time.
I bought a copy for my teenage niece and am glad I did. Everyone should read this. It may be a fiction, but in reality, it's all too real.
October 4, 2023
An awesome read that thoroughly compelled me from beginning until the end.
This book is certainly different but it's what I liked about it.
I must admit it was the cover that drew me in.
I felt all kinds of emotions throughout this novel but mostly pure hate, racism and fear.
Fear of being different is what I felt most of all. But, I also liked the determination to right a wrong and that's why I admired Aaleyah. It's her spirit that I appreciated.
I think what made me the saddest of all was the bookshop owner. I won't say more
I thought the author did well with this book. I hope that we get to see more of her in the future.
5 stars for a job well done. I highly recommend.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own
This book is certainly different but it's what I liked about it.
I must admit it was the cover that drew me in.
I felt all kinds of emotions throughout this novel but mostly pure hate, racism and fear.
Fear of being different is what I felt most of all. But, I also liked the determination to right a wrong and that's why I admired Aaleyah. It's her spirit that I appreciated.
I think what made me the saddest of all was the bookshop owner. I won't say more
I thought the author did well with this book. I hope that we get to see more of her in the future.
5 stars for a job well done. I highly recommend.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own
October 24, 2023
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are my own opinions.
Wow, just wow. I enjoyed reading every page of Race to the Finish Line. I would love to be able to say how far-fetched it was, but it is sadly easy to think you are reading a nonfictional true crime story.
The only connections I have with the story are that I'm Canadian, have heard so many stories about the southern US and some parts of Canada and I am human. The human part should be enough to not want anyone else to feel this much hatred due to the color of their skin, place of birth, or religion.
I recommend everyone read this book with their children and discuss how they feel and if they have seen or experienced anything like our young heroes have.
Wow, just wow. I enjoyed reading every page of Race to the Finish Line. I would love to be able to say how far-fetched it was, but it is sadly easy to think you are reading a nonfictional true crime story.
The only connections I have with the story are that I'm Canadian, have heard so many stories about the southern US and some parts of Canada and I am human. The human part should be enough to not want anyone else to feel this much hatred due to the color of their skin, place of birth, or religion.
I recommend everyone read this book with their children and discuss how they feel and if they have seen or experienced anything like our young heroes have.
August 7, 2020
I was attracted to this YA novel by the striking but shocking cover. The novel is equally hard-hitting and sadly relevant, dealing with issues of identity, racism, Islamophobia and human trafficking. Set in small town America where the KKK is still prevalent this coming of age story for a black muslim girl is not easy. Sounds a bit far-fetched? Sadly in Trump's America some of the issues and ideas in this book are all too familiar. A great read but some of the mystery elements fall a bit flat. More of a story of issues rather than a mystery but still worthwhile.
November 14, 2020
The cover was what initially took my attention. I mean a kkk and a Muslim girl and the fact that’s it’s labeled a mystery.
Aaliyah is the main character she is a Black Muslim girl who moved a racist city in the US from Canada.
The story itself just made me a lot angry! The stuff Aaliyah has to witness and endure like real sad. I feel the amount of people giving this book a 1 or 2 star never had to endure racism. This book was pretty good and I’m glad I read it. Some real life stuff here.
Aaliyah is the main character she is a Black Muslim girl who moved a racist city in the US from Canada.
The story itself just made me a lot angry! The stuff Aaliyah has to witness and endure like real sad. I feel the amount of people giving this book a 1 or 2 star never had to endure racism. This book was pretty good and I’m glad I read it. Some real life stuff here.
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