Jennifer Latham
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
May 2015
This young adult novel places a non-traditional teen not in school but in her office as a private investigator. Readers will enjoy seeing Scarlett as a loyal friend, family member, and fair-play advocate.
What's different about this book
This story feels different: Scarlett moves in her own, adult-feeling world (no school, no usual competition with classmates) where family ties are strong but non-traditional; community support is realistic rather than stereotypical; and the grown-up challenges Scarlett faces, often on her own, are gritty, complex, and compelling. The added element of supernatural aspects (genies and ancient warrior lines and modern-day cults) add an unexpected level of intrigue.
The diversity of the book's characters should draw the attention of librarians who seek to enrich their collection's view of the world: Scarlett is a Muslim, living in a family with Muslim practices yet very much representative of 21st-century life in America. The occasional Muslim greeting and elements of the religion's heritage do a great deal to build the atmosphere for the edgy, at times threatening plot line. The overall effect is suspenseful and engaging.
What I'll do now that I've read it
Beyond book-talks and making sure my teen patrons hear about this book, I'm reaching out to fellow librarians and library directors to alert them to this rich book: full of action, compelling mystery and suspense, and full of tantalizing unknown touches in the world it poses. A great read.
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