By Angie Thomas
5 Stars
Angie Thomas’ The Hate U Give is a deeply meaningful novel that explores the impact of systemic racism and police brutality through the perspective of protagonist Starr Carter. She is a sixteen-year-old girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. The story follows Starr as she ventures through the challenges of speaking out against wrong-doings and injustice while also balancing her life between her majority-black neighbourhood and majority-white private school.
One of the most compelling aspects of The Hate U Give is its authentic depiction of modern-day social issues. The author’s writing is both engaging and gripping. This provides a deeply personal perspective on the “Black Lives Matter” movement. Starr’s voice is strong, making her relatable to many and marking her journey as one that many marginalized communities can relate to.
The novel’s key standout aspect is its character development. Starr is a well-written protagonist, and her growth throughout the story is both inspiring and heartbreaking. The supporting characters, from her loving family to her conflicted friends, add depth to the novel. The author does an excellent job of portraying the complexities of the relationships humans share with one another in a realistic and relatable way.
It is important to note that some readers may find the themes present in this novel heavy. There is also explicit language throughout the novel. Younger readers may find it difficult trying to understand the more complex emotions and themes that are present throughout the novel.
Despite this, The Hate U Give is an exceptional novel and is highly recommended to those who are looking for a powerful, emotion-provoking story with a focus on social issues and the complexities that humans share with one another. A must read!
Reviewed by Aayan
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