What do you think?
Rate this book
The Learner's Plight: A Novella
TELL-ALL INSIGHT INTO THE LIFE OF A STRUGGLING TEEN.
Gavin Hawthorne has recently emigrated from Ireland to the United States and is faced with an uphill battle to fight against blatant indifference. He undergoes rampant bullying at the hands of school’s athletic team and finds temporary solace in Linda, another student who has just arrived from Poland. However, this dependency doesn’t last for long as Gavin is plunged into the world of depression, stuck in a vicious cycle of self-hatred.
In harrowing times like these, a close acquaintance becomes his much-needed ally and helps Gavin re-discover fondness for the gift of life.
Gavin Hawthorne has recently emigrated from Ireland to the United States and is faced with an uphill battle to fight against blatant indifference. He undergoes rampant bullying at the hands of school’s athletic team and finds temporary solace in Linda, another student who has just arrived from Poland. However, this dependency doesn’t last for long as Gavin is plunged into the world of depression, stuck in a vicious cycle of self-hatred.
In harrowing times like these, a close acquaintance becomes his much-needed ally and helps Gavin re-discover fondness for the gift of life.
ebook
Published July 5, 2020
11 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 6, 2021
(ARC from BookSirens, now available)
This wasn’t a good start to the year, I’m afraid. It was short though, so I didn’t have to spend more than a day’s reading on it.
Did I read the same book as all those who gave 5-star reviews? Or were they just the author’s friends? I’m finding it difficult to identify any redeeming qualities of this novella. So I’ll try to make my criticism as constructive as possible.
The story is about a boy, Gavin Hawthorne, who has recently moved from Ireland to the USA and is struggling to fit in in high school. I like stories about people living in other countries, I’ve lived abroad for more than eleven years, and I find the different experiences interesting. However, I failed to see exactly why Gavin was having a hard time at school. Just because he’s shy? And why is he bullied? Just because bullies bully?
According to the author’s note, the story details some events/feelings experienced by the author. In that case, he has my sympathy. However, this is a work of fiction; show the reader more clearly why the events are happening. I couldn’t see the motivation behind the bullying and, although only the victim knows how the instances of bullying make him feel, the examples seemed relatively minor and cliched even. However, Gavin appears to show some insight into the actions of those around him, in that case can’t he understand his own actions (or lack of)? Perhaps the insight comes too early.
It was a very confusing story to follow as the timeline seemed to jump around from present to past, and this wasn’t helped by the language used. Is English the author’s first language? The first few pages were very hard to read because it seems that every word that could potentially have been replaced by something from the thesaurus with more syllables, was. Whether aimed at high-schoolers or not, keep complicated language at a minimum – the resulting text is too dense.
Throughout the book the author shows areas of grammar that need work. Prepositions: confident in, not on; divulge and debate without prepositions; and pronouns: a person’s hair is referred to as ‘them’, Gavin is directly addressed as ‘they’. The solution? Read, read, read! And check your doubts (summer is not plural unless referring to multiple summers, ‘up to’ are two words, numbers (especially under ten) are written out in letters.
I’m not trying to pick apart the author’s knowledge, but proper editing and revision is crucial. It seriously affects the reader’s experience and ability to read comfortably. The aforementioned were grammatical errors but the book is also riddled with typos (A changed main? The bed memories? Is Meena headed to Colombia or Columbia? The latter, I assume, rather than the country). And why is there no punctuation used in dialogue? (“How so” I inquire.) It’s not easy to proofread a whole book (I know, I do it) but it is worth the effort and will get easier every time. Perfection is invisible, flaws unfortunately, stand out a mile.
In short, although the author has something to say about the importance of teenage mental health issues and bullying (which he does in the afterword) he’s been unsuccessful and the result is a difficult to read novella, lacking in real plot and in need of proper revision and editing. Not recommended.
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC.
This wasn’t a good start to the year, I’m afraid. It was short though, so I didn’t have to spend more than a day’s reading on it.
Did I read the same book as all those who gave 5-star reviews? Or were they just the author’s friends? I’m finding it difficult to identify any redeeming qualities of this novella. So I’ll try to make my criticism as constructive as possible.
The story is about a boy, Gavin Hawthorne, who has recently moved from Ireland to the USA and is struggling to fit in in high school. I like stories about people living in other countries, I’ve lived abroad for more than eleven years, and I find the different experiences interesting. However, I failed to see exactly why Gavin was having a hard time at school. Just because he’s shy? And why is he bullied? Just because bullies bully?
According to the author’s note, the story details some events/feelings experienced by the author. In that case, he has my sympathy. However, this is a work of fiction; show the reader more clearly why the events are happening. I couldn’t see the motivation behind the bullying and, although only the victim knows how the instances of bullying make him feel, the examples seemed relatively minor and cliched even. However, Gavin appears to show some insight into the actions of those around him, in that case can’t he understand his own actions (or lack of)? Perhaps the insight comes too early.
It was a very confusing story to follow as the timeline seemed to jump around from present to past, and this wasn’t helped by the language used. Is English the author’s first language? The first few pages were very hard to read because it seems that every word that could potentially have been replaced by something from the thesaurus with more syllables, was. Whether aimed at high-schoolers or not, keep complicated language at a minimum – the resulting text is too dense.
Throughout the book the author shows areas of grammar that need work. Prepositions: confident in, not on; divulge and debate without prepositions; and pronouns: a person’s hair is referred to as ‘them’, Gavin is directly addressed as ‘they’. The solution? Read, read, read! And check your doubts (summer is not plural unless referring to multiple summers, ‘up to’ are two words, numbers (especially under ten) are written out in letters.
I’m not trying to pick apart the author’s knowledge, but proper editing and revision is crucial. It seriously affects the reader’s experience and ability to read comfortably. The aforementioned were grammatical errors but the book is also riddled with typos (A changed main? The bed memories? Is Meena headed to Colombia or Columbia? The latter, I assume, rather than the country). And why is there no punctuation used in dialogue? (“How so” I inquire.) It’s not easy to proofread a whole book (I know, I do it) but it is worth the effort and will get easier every time. Perfection is invisible, flaws unfortunately, stand out a mile.
In short, although the author has something to say about the importance of teenage mental health issues and bullying (which he does in the afterword) he’s been unsuccessful and the result is a difficult to read novella, lacking in real plot and in need of proper revision and editing. Not recommended.
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC.
July 3, 2020
A genuinely touching and sincere story-line.
This was Shah's debut novella and, while it certainly fell on the shorter side, I haven't read an honest down-to-earth book like this in ages!. Everything is neat and clean, with the main focus being the struggles of Gavin and his personal fight with all challenges. It's fast-paced and conveys a deeply engrossing story in a few words. There is a good balance between teen lingo and heart-felt words which is a rarity with most high-school stories nowadays.
Bullying is a huge issue but it's becoming extremely subtle nowadays and Shah has explained how that's the case using a simple character.
Can't wait to see what else is in store with this author.
This was Shah's debut novella and, while it certainly fell on the shorter side, I haven't read an honest down-to-earth book like this in ages!. Everything is neat and clean, with the main focus being the struggles of Gavin and his personal fight with all challenges. It's fast-paced and conveys a deeply engrossing story in a few words. There is a good balance between teen lingo and heart-felt words which is a rarity with most high-school stories nowadays.
Bullying is a huge issue but it's becoming extremely subtle nowadays and Shah has explained how that's the case using a simple character.
Can't wait to see what else is in store with this author.
July 5, 2020
If high school life isn’t hard enough for the average person, it is twice as hard for Gavin Hawthorne. Having emigrated from Ireland to the United States, Gavin finds himself alone in a world of cliques, bullies, and depression. After his closest friend and fellow kindred spirit Linda abandons him in favor of a more popular group Gavin finds himself discarded and lonely. But an unlikely acquaintance steps in to help and with her guidance, Gavin learns what can arguably be the most important lesson of his life. With his newfound peace, Gavin sets out to spread this lesson to others who may need it as well.
The Learner’s Plight is the debut novella by Muhammad Hamza Shah and is a very insightful read. Told from the point of view of Gavin, the reader is immersed in his thoughts, feelings, and emotions as he faces class bullies, high school cliques, teenage angst, and his own insecurities. Checking in at a little under 50 pages, The Learner’s Plight is short, but its impact will stay with you for a long time to come. Shah’s writing style is elegant, almost poetic, and belies his young age. Never once did it feel like I was reading a debut offering, but a work from an established author. While the story does leave some unresolved conflict, I felt that Shah handled this beautifully while keeping true to the realistic feel of the overall story. I have a teenager entering high school this year and this may be a book I have him read with the hope of equipping him for the experience to come. If The Learner’s Plight is any indication of Shah’s capabilities, I am looking forward to his next novel and beyond.
The Learner’s Plight is the debut novella by Muhammad Hamza Shah and is a very insightful read. Told from the point of view of Gavin, the reader is immersed in his thoughts, feelings, and emotions as he faces class bullies, high school cliques, teenage angst, and his own insecurities. Checking in at a little under 50 pages, The Learner’s Plight is short, but its impact will stay with you for a long time to come. Shah’s writing style is elegant, almost poetic, and belies his young age. Never once did it feel like I was reading a debut offering, but a work from an established author. While the story does leave some unresolved conflict, I felt that Shah handled this beautifully while keeping true to the realistic feel of the overall story. I have a teenager entering high school this year and this may be a book I have him read with the hope of equipping him for the experience to come. If The Learner’s Plight is any indication of Shah’s capabilities, I am looking forward to his next novel and beyond.
July 11, 2020
High school can be stressful enough with getting good grades, all the extracurricular activities, and trying to get prepped and into your chosen college. But for Gavin Hawthorne, an Irish immigrant who is still fairly new at school can add bullying from the jocks to this list. And to make it worse, his friend, Linda Barnowska, who is also an immigrant, has dropped him to be part of the popular crowd.
This coming of age story is a must-read for all high school students. I love how the main character, who not only is bullied but suffers from depression, is a boy. There are a lot of stories about girls and mental illness, but boys tend to be overlooked, not that they don’t suffer from mental illness, but are taught to ‘toughen up’ instead.
Muhammad writes in a tone that will resonate with many young readers. He shows them that they are not alone and how they can find ways out of their sadness with the help of a good friend, and maybe helping others along the way.
This coming of age story is a must-read for all high school students. I love how the main character, who not only is bullied but suffers from depression, is a boy. There are a lot of stories about girls and mental illness, but boys tend to be overlooked, not that they don’t suffer from mental illness, but are taught to ‘toughen up’ instead.
Muhammad writes in a tone that will resonate with many young readers. He shows them that they are not alone and how they can find ways out of their sadness with the help of a good friend, and maybe helping others along the way.
September 7, 2020
I received a copy for free thanks to booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I can see how this book could be moving to some, but for me it didn’t hit the mark. I wasn’t attached to any of the characters or their stories. I didn’t feel motivated to pick it up, although I did end up finishing it. The emotional impact that this book could have had fell flat. I also though it seemed like everything just fell into the character’s lap. I didn’t really get to see the character struggle for the end result. It just happened. I didn’t get the things that I wanted out of this book, and for that I am disappointed.
I can see how this book could be moving to some, but for me it didn’t hit the mark. I wasn’t attached to any of the characters or their stories. I didn’t feel motivated to pick it up, although I did end up finishing it. The emotional impact that this book could have had fell flat. I also though it seemed like everything just fell into the character’s lap. I didn’t really get to see the character struggle for the end result. It just happened. I didn’t get the things that I wanted out of this book, and for that I am disappointed.
August 15, 2020
“The Learner’s Plight” is the debut novella by Muhammad Hamza Shah and is a very inspiring read.
This short story is told from the point of view of Gavin, an adolescent, who moved to the United States from Ireland and is having a hard time adapting to his new school and classmates. The reader has the chance to get involved in his thoughts, emotions and feelings as he faces bullies, friendship problems and his own insecurities. He seems to find support in Linda, who comes from Poland, but this is only temporary. However, there is hope for Gavin, as he stands tall and finds his own strength to fight against adversity.
This story is very short, it has a little less than fifty pages, but the author has done an excellent job at capturing and transmiting the ups and downs of adolescence. The characters are very realistic and well-drawn and the descriptions of Gavin’s struggle make this book an absorving read. I strongly recommend it for anyone who wants to read a beautiful and fulfilling story.
This short story is told from the point of view of Gavin, an adolescent, who moved to the United States from Ireland and is having a hard time adapting to his new school and classmates. The reader has the chance to get involved in his thoughts, emotions and feelings as he faces bullies, friendship problems and his own insecurities. He seems to find support in Linda, who comes from Poland, but this is only temporary. However, there is hope for Gavin, as he stands tall and finds his own strength to fight against adversity.
This story is very short, it has a little less than fifty pages, but the author has done an excellent job at capturing and transmiting the ups and downs of adolescence. The characters are very realistic and well-drawn and the descriptions of Gavin’s struggle make this book an absorving read. I strongly recommend it for anyone who wants to read a beautiful and fulfilling story.
September 1, 2020
**I was given a free e-copy of this book by BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.**
It's a heartwarming story about a high school boy going through some tough time with school and having a hard time dealing with bullies. He had made it sure at the end that those bullies are not what makes him himself, but what he decides is what makes him unique and different.
This story might help people conquer their fears and face the reality that whatever happens, your bullies does not decide for what you will be, but yourself.
As I am entering college now, I will still definitely keep this in mind. It is incredibly short but full of amazingness.
It's a heartwarming story about a high school boy going through some tough time with school and having a hard time dealing with bullies. He had made it sure at the end that those bullies are not what makes him himself, but what he decides is what makes him unique and different.
This story might help people conquer their fears and face the reality that whatever happens, your bullies does not decide for what you will be, but yourself.
As I am entering college now, I will still definitely keep this in mind. It is incredibly short but full of amazingness.
August 27, 2020
Very touching. I think this is a novel that would resonate well with young teens who face social struggles and bullying on a daily basis. Although, the author says it is his debut writing, it sounds like it was written by a well established author. This short novel carries a lot of good points for one to ponder upon!
June 24, 2020
(5/5) The Learner's Plight consolidates stark realities of a person attempting to fit in and failing to do so. The feelings and thoughts of protagonist emphatically show how pupils struggle with social issues nowadays. The novella is truly one of a kind, with the ability to make you feel strongly about the topic.
August 9, 2020
Although this story is a short read, it talks about the serious condition of an individual, Gavin. Many of us felt sad or depressed after being bullied in high school or rejected by a person we liked. But Gavin goes through these events more hurtful, and the book deals with much darker issues then the reader could guess at the beginning. It is a great and serious read, and for that reason, everyone should read it.
August 15, 2020
Life for those that move out of their country is not always easy or colour pink, starting a new high school, neither. The book bears its name to Gavin Hawthorne's Plight after moving from Ireland to the United States.
Developed in 12 chapters written in the first person, this tale has it all: bullying, inequality and the depression of an adolescent. Like any other teen, he draws comfort from Linda, another immigrant student, though this relief does not last long.
The author succeeds in making readers feel the pain and problems Gavin is going through, this is partly thanks to the way this book has been penned.
The Learner’s Plight is addressed to young adults and teenagers, but I am pretty sure any adult would enjoy it as much as I did since the topics addressed are serious and present in our daily lives, especially if we have children or are near them.
Developed in 12 chapters written in the first person, this tale has it all: bullying, inequality and the depression of an adolescent. Like any other teen, he draws comfort from Linda, another immigrant student, though this relief does not last long.
The author succeeds in making readers feel the pain and problems Gavin is going through, this is partly thanks to the way this book has been penned.
The Learner’s Plight is addressed to young adults and teenagers, but I am pretty sure any adult would enjoy it as much as I did since the topics addressed are serious and present in our daily lives, especially if we have children or are near them.
August 11, 2020
Debut work from M. H. Shah and my, my did it deliver.
Written in a poetic style, Shah knows how to play with the heartstrings and elicit an emotional response on all accounts. Gavin was an extraordinary character and totally alleviated the whole background of the story. Not only was I drawn towards the dark, bullying side of the narrative but the ability to show his inner realization as self-discovery is certainly not to be missed.
For its length, the idea was executed exceptionally well. Perhaps, if Shah considered writing a longer book I would have had the pleasure of witnessing more character buildup. Nevertheless, the fast-pace also consolidates a beautiful message via a small composition.
Let's see what else Shah has in store for us in the future!
Written in a poetic style, Shah knows how to play with the heartstrings and elicit an emotional response on all accounts. Gavin was an extraordinary character and totally alleviated the whole background of the story. Not only was I drawn towards the dark, bullying side of the narrative but the ability to show his inner realization as self-discovery is certainly not to be missed.
For its length, the idea was executed exceptionally well. Perhaps, if Shah considered writing a longer book I would have had the pleasure of witnessing more character buildup. Nevertheless, the fast-pace also consolidates a beautiful message via a small composition.
Let's see what else Shah has in store for us in the future!
July 18, 2020
A well-balanced and touching composition
“The Learner’s Plight” is Shah’s debut work and focuses on an immigrant’s struggles with fitting in.The standard high school culture is hard to adjust in and the main character, Gavin, has to undergo betrayal as a part of it as well. Shah has done a good job at targeting key mental health issues in the story and came up with a satisfactory resolution
“The Learner’s Plight” is Shah’s debut work and focuses on an immigrant’s struggles with fitting in.The standard high school culture is hard to adjust in and the main character, Gavin, has to undergo betrayal as a part of it as well. Shah has done a good job at targeting key mental health issues in the story and came up with a satisfactory resolution
March 28, 2021
Being in high school is hard, but for Irish immigrant Gavin Hawthorne it’s so much harder. Not only does he have to adjust to life in the United States and focus on getting good grades, but he has to deal with bullying, loneliness, betrayal and depression. I love how Gavin’s plight is raw and emotive - Shah doesn’t skirt around the emotional effects this has on his main character. With the guidance of a good friend, Gavin finally finds peace and perspective, and using this, he sets out to help others in his position do the same.
The Learner’s Plight is the first publication from Muhammad Hamza Shah, and is beautifully written and thought provoking. He depicts perfectly, the insecurities and vulnerabilities of being a teenager, and I feel that a lot of young people will relate to Gavin’s plight. Although this is a novella, it’s impact is significant and one that will stay with me for a long time. The novella is beautifully crafted, and did not feel like I was reading a debut publication. If this novella is anything to go by, I look forward to reading more from Shah in the future.
Thank you to Book Sirens for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Learner’s Plight is the first publication from Muhammad Hamza Shah, and is beautifully written and thought provoking. He depicts perfectly, the insecurities and vulnerabilities of being a teenager, and I feel that a lot of young people will relate to Gavin’s plight. Although this is a novella, it’s impact is significant and one that will stay with me for a long time. The novella is beautifully crafted, and did not feel like I was reading a debut publication. If this novella is anything to go by, I look forward to reading more from Shah in the future.
Thank you to Book Sirens for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2020
Having known the author personally, he has done an impeccable job at highlighting teen issues. Without giving out too much, the protagonist, Gavin, is a perfect depiction of a teen struggling with peer pressure and harnessing a consistent feeling of inadequacy. However, just the fact that he was able to fight against these adversities, it's incredibly inspiring.
Perhaps, the story was a bit too short and ended abruptly but a novella is supposed to be fast-paced.
Highly recommended!
Perhaps, the story was a bit too short and ended abruptly but a novella is supposed to be fast-paced.
Highly recommended!
January 5, 2022
To see more reviews check out MI Book Reviews.
I got an ARC of this book from the author.
I am finally getting back to being able to read books that I was excited about. This is one of the first books that will hopefully mean I am out of my reading funk!
The book follows a teen boy dealing with losing someone he cares about to the mean girl clique. It has deep emotions and really flowery writing. It does not read like a typical YA. It felt more like an adult book that was written about teens. I liked that. It made it stand out a bit more to me. The writing did make it difficult at times to believe what was happening, because what teen talks this formally?
The actual plot was straight forward and I enjoyed that there was a bit of a time jump. This back and forth established the characters and really drew me in. I wanted to know more. If it had been more linear, I don’t think I would have enjoyed it as much as I did.
It was short, but I didn’t feel like I was missing too much. I am more a fan of longer pieces. I would have read a more fleshed out full length novel about these characters, as long as the dialogue relaxed a little.
The biggest issue was the grasp on how US schools worked, not sure if it is mine of Shah’s grasp though. The way the school was described around exams and AP sounded more like British schools that the US schools I was used to. Maybe this was just the way the character spoke about things, which would add a nice little bit of flavor text. So I am not even faulting Shah for it, more intrigued to see what would happen in longer pieces.
Overall, it was a fun and fast read. It reminded me a bit of one character for a show I binge watched not too long ago, Derry Girls. There was a transfer student from another country and the way he was treated and sort of a background character comes to mind. This is the sort of story I would expect from him. I look forward to seeing Shah grow as an author.
I got an ARC of this book from the author.
I am finally getting back to being able to read books that I was excited about. This is one of the first books that will hopefully mean I am out of my reading funk!
The book follows a teen boy dealing with losing someone he cares about to the mean girl clique. It has deep emotions and really flowery writing. It does not read like a typical YA. It felt more like an adult book that was written about teens. I liked that. It made it stand out a bit more to me. The writing did make it difficult at times to believe what was happening, because what teen talks this formally?
The actual plot was straight forward and I enjoyed that there was a bit of a time jump. This back and forth established the characters and really drew me in. I wanted to know more. If it had been more linear, I don’t think I would have enjoyed it as much as I did.
It was short, but I didn’t feel like I was missing too much. I am more a fan of longer pieces. I would have read a more fleshed out full length novel about these characters, as long as the dialogue relaxed a little.
The biggest issue was the grasp on how US schools worked, not sure if it is mine of Shah’s grasp though. The way the school was described around exams and AP sounded more like British schools that the US schools I was used to. Maybe this was just the way the character spoke about things, which would add a nice little bit of flavor text. So I am not even faulting Shah for it, more intrigued to see what would happen in longer pieces.
Overall, it was a fun and fast read. It reminded me a bit of one character for a show I binge watched not too long ago, Derry Girls. There was a transfer student from another country and the way he was treated and sort of a background character comes to mind. This is the sort of story I would expect from him. I look forward to seeing Shah grow as an author.
August 13, 2020
Muhammad Hamza Shah’s debut novel titled The Learner’s Plight is a realistic depiction of the social struggles and internal conflicts faced by many high school students these days. Gavin Hawthorne has just moved from Ireland to the United States and is finding it difficult to fit in at his new high school. Just when things are looking up with the help of a new friend named Linda, she decides to abandon him for the sake of popularity. Lonely and the target of high school bullies, Gavin must persevere through bullying, insecurities, fear and depression with the help of an unexpected ally.
The character of Gavin has been very well-written as he is three-dimensional, relatable and shows immense growth throughout the story. Despite being a short read, the message in this book is profound and will resonate with many high school students who are enduring constant difficulties to fit in every day. It also offers the underexplored male perspective on mental health issues and insecurities. Gavin’s vocabulary in the book at times is a little too high to be realistic for a high school student but it does help to convey his emotions beautifully. All in all, this book sheds light on the mental issues teenagers especially immigrants face and ends on a positive and heartening note.
The character of Gavin has been very well-written as he is three-dimensional, relatable and shows immense growth throughout the story. Despite being a short read, the message in this book is profound and will resonate with many high school students who are enduring constant difficulties to fit in every day. It also offers the underexplored male perspective on mental health issues and insecurities. Gavin’s vocabulary in the book at times is a little too high to be realistic for a high school student but it does help to convey his emotions beautifully. All in all, this book sheds light on the mental issues teenagers especially immigrants face and ends on a positive and heartening note.
July 22, 2020
Hanza has written a thought provoking and interesting novella that is well worth the read. It’s set in a high school environment which makes the experiences of the protagonist relatable in a way for me as the reader, as it would most people – high school is rough! It showcases a lot of torment and struggle that students can go through, making it a great insight.
There are more books emerging about depression and creating mental health awareness, and I love that this one seems to have a positive outcome. It is actually good for those of us with similar experiences to see that there can definitely be a light at the end of the tunnel.
My only issue with this is that I feel like there are words in the book that are just there to try and embellish the sentences more than needed. I find myself having to re-read a paragraph sometimes. Being a short book does make it balance though! Reading the author’s note at the end does explain that it’s their first book, and it’s a great first piece!
Overall, this is a great, little novella that can show struggling students they aren’t alone. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.
There are more books emerging about depression and creating mental health awareness, and I love that this one seems to have a positive outcome. It is actually good for those of us with similar experiences to see that there can definitely be a light at the end of the tunnel.
My only issue with this is that I feel like there are words in the book that are just there to try and embellish the sentences more than needed. I find myself having to re-read a paragraph sometimes. Being a short book does make it balance though! Reading the author’s note at the end does explain that it’s their first book, and it’s a great first piece!
Overall, this is a great, little novella that can show struggling students they aren’t alone. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.
August 17, 2020
The Learner’s Plight is an absorbing and captivating book written by Muhammad Hamza Shah, actually it is his debut piece of work. Despite the fact that the story is only 72 pages long, the characters in the novella are surprisingly memorable because each of them have a very strong or headstrong personality that defines who they are. I found it very lucid, elegant and easy to read. The protagonist is Gavin Hawthorne, a boy who emigrated to The United States and as soon as he opened the door of his new school he has to fight against indifference, bullying and other cruelties.
The plot is interesting and it has a little bit of everything: revenge, bravery, and adventure. It’s a classic and hard story, especially raw and painful to those who live or experience these torments in their own flesh. This novella progresses naturally and smoothly. While reading it, I could easily empathize with Gavin. The situations and problems he faces and the ways he reacts make this story both interesting and life-like. Once you start reading it, it is hard to put down!
I can’t wait for more from this author. It is a fantastic work to explore!
The plot is interesting and it has a little bit of everything: revenge, bravery, and adventure. It’s a classic and hard story, especially raw and painful to those who live or experience these torments in their own flesh. This novella progresses naturally and smoothly. While reading it, I could easily empathize with Gavin. The situations and problems he faces and the ways he reacts make this story both interesting and life-like. Once you start reading it, it is hard to put down!
I can’t wait for more from this author. It is a fantastic work to explore!
July 11, 2020
The Learner’s Plight by Muhammad Hamza Shah tells the story of Gavin Hawthorne, who has recently emigrated from Ireland to the United States. The novel follows Gavin as he adjusts to life in a new country and the trials and tribulations of high school.
I liked this book. It’s a cute novel with an important message about standing up for yourself.
I liked the plot. I think that the theme of moving on from friends that you have grown apart from is a universal topic that will resonate with a lot of people. I also feel that the topic of bullying is incredibly important to discuss as many people have experienced it at some point in their lives.
I also really liked Shah’s writing style. It is very conversational and honest.
Finally, Gavin is a really likeable and relatable main character and I think people will really enjoy reading his story.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a cute novel with a relatable main character and universal themes.
The Learner’s Plight by Muhammad Hamza Shah is available now from SMHZ Books.
Advertisements
I liked this book. It’s a cute novel with an important message about standing up for yourself.
I liked the plot. I think that the theme of moving on from friends that you have grown apart from is a universal topic that will resonate with a lot of people. I also feel that the topic of bullying is incredibly important to discuss as many people have experienced it at some point in their lives.
I also really liked Shah’s writing style. It is very conversational and honest.
Finally, Gavin is a really likeable and relatable main character and I think people will really enjoy reading his story.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a cute novel with a relatable main character and universal themes.
The Learner’s Plight by Muhammad Hamza Shah is available now from SMHZ Books.
Advertisements
August 14, 2020
A thought-provoking and moving story.
Unfortunately, some teenagers at some points in their lives undergo bullying in different situations. It is sad but it happens. “The Learner´s Plight: a Novella” is a catchy story written by Muhammad Hamza Shah that portraits this sad matter at high school. As the name indicates, it is a short piece of work but with a huge and strong message to think about.
The story is about an Irish young boy, Gavin Hawthorne who moves to the United States. It is a life-changing decision because he encounters with tough and ill-mannered teenagers that make his life miserable.
It goes without saying that the plot of this novella is thought-provoking and makes you empathize with the main character. The writing style is so absorbing that I was immersed in it and felt every single word of this story. As I mentioned before, it is a novella that made me think about bullying in all its forms. Resilience, failure, friendship and love are some of the important themes that are portrayed here. I thoroughly recommend it!
Unfortunately, some teenagers at some points in their lives undergo bullying in different situations. It is sad but it happens. “The Learner´s Plight: a Novella” is a catchy story written by Muhammad Hamza Shah that portraits this sad matter at high school. As the name indicates, it is a short piece of work but with a huge and strong message to think about.
The story is about an Irish young boy, Gavin Hawthorne who moves to the United States. It is a life-changing decision because he encounters with tough and ill-mannered teenagers that make his life miserable.
It goes without saying that the plot of this novella is thought-provoking and makes you empathize with the main character. The writing style is so absorbing that I was immersed in it and felt every single word of this story. As I mentioned before, it is a novella that made me think about bullying in all its forms. Resilience, failure, friendship and love are some of the important themes that are portrayed here. I thoroughly recommend it!
July 25, 2020
I enjoyed this short novel and it read like a memoir to me. Gavin is obviously a smart young man because even his vocabulary is above-average for a high school student. The author did a good job of making me 'feel' what Gavin was going through and the struggles he faced with his own self-confidence, and I enjoyed how his friend Shirley was there to help him remember that he needed to find a way to overcome his issues with self-confidence. He did a good job with the character, Linda, as well, as she almost gave up her true-self just to fit in/get in with the right crowd. I like the end of the book and Gavin's solution to his problem, and I recommend this book for anyone who hates bullying and also wants to feel they can relate to a boy struggling through this in high school, whether in their own country or as a foreign student.
August 24, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I liked that this was a book on bullying. I was bullied as a child. I have worked with kids on antibullying in the last few years.
The book is a short and honest story of an immigrant in a new high school. Even though, I am old, I remember high school cliques. This book tells his story ( along with another immigrant).
One, of the many things, I liked about the story, was it told how he coped with being a bullied. It was real, raw, and not judgmental. He told the story being his authentic self.
The writer is young, but I think that is what makes it best. The best coming of age stories, come from those, who just lived them.
I look forward to reading more from the author. Thank you for sharing your story with us. I hope it inspires so many.
The book is a short and honest story of an immigrant in a new high school. Even though, I am old, I remember high school cliques. This book tells his story ( along with another immigrant).
One, of the many things, I liked about the story, was it told how he coped with being a bullied. It was real, raw, and not judgmental. He told the story being his authentic self.
The writer is young, but I think that is what makes it best. The best coming of age stories, come from those, who just lived them.
I look forward to reading more from the author. Thank you for sharing your story with us. I hope it inspires so many.
July 29, 2020
Great book for teenagers who experience bullying and also the bully who might not know you are doing this to others.
You can feel full of emotions thru these words. Well-written. A story of an awkward teenager named Gavin which many kids can easily relate to, worrying too much about other people’s opinions and created scarcity in his head. To be a teenager, you want to be accepted. Some kids are mean because they want to look better in society. The way they do is to push some weaker down. Some kids grow out of this behavior but sadly some are not and they become adult bullies in the workplace. You can’t change them but you can change yourself, stand up for yourself, and have a stronger mind.
You can feel full of emotions thru these words. Well-written. A story of an awkward teenager named Gavin which many kids can easily relate to, worrying too much about other people’s opinions and created scarcity in his head. To be a teenager, you want to be accepted. Some kids are mean because they want to look better in society. The way they do is to push some weaker down. Some kids grow out of this behavior but sadly some are not and they become adult bullies in the workplace. You can’t change them but you can change yourself, stand up for yourself, and have a stronger mind.
September 22, 2020
I received a free copy from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
An insightful, thought-provoking novel that I wish I could have read when I was younger. The story is quite short, yet the author does a great job in conveying authentically, mental health through the eyes of a teenager.
Gavin’s genuine introspection as portrayed through inner thoughts and journal writing are so common to what many young people experience, but don’t always understand what they are going through. It certainly related to my own feelings growing up.
I loved his ending realisation regarding self-worth, the writing resonated strongly with me. I would love to see the author develop the novel further as there is so much potential to the story and message.
An insightful, thought-provoking novel that I wish I could have read when I was younger. The story is quite short, yet the author does a great job in conveying authentically, mental health through the eyes of a teenager.
Gavin’s genuine introspection as portrayed through inner thoughts and journal writing are so common to what many young people experience, but don’t always understand what they are going through. It certainly related to my own feelings growing up.
I loved his ending realisation regarding self-worth, the writing resonated strongly with me. I would love to see the author develop the novel further as there is so much potential to the story and message.
September 1, 2020
This was a very quick, and understandable read. More so it is about standing up for yourself, and what you are. I swear for someone who experienced the horror of asshole moves from bullies, then this is the book to read. Reading it I could feel the emotions while going through the pages. It was making me think about my past back on when I was bullied. Seriously in high school when people are bullied it is a different thing compared to younger schools. Made me cry almost while reading this. When my son gets older I will have him read this. To help him understand that bullying is wrong and that it is to not be done. Good job on this book.
July 21, 2020
God, I really needed this book to relieve some stress. Great book, powerful story and written in crisp, succinct prose. Sheds light on mental health of an immigrant which is always a welcome perspective. A fun read!
August 13, 2020
The Learner's Plight is a Coming of Age story about a boy learning about life through the rigors of being bullied at high school. It is thoughtful and it comes with a great lesson for teens transitioning into adults.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews