The Stars and the Blackness Between Them is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read, and not just because of its stunning cover. Told in dual POV, Stars is two girls’ stories of family, love, and identity.

Dang, I loved it so much.

Audre and Mabel, two Black young women, find love and friendship. The setting is vibrant and tangible, whether we are in Trinidad or Minneapolis. I loved Audre’s grandma and their relationship. Petrus explores the unique cultures of the two communities as well as their shared experiences.

I felt a lot of things reading this book. Sadness and frustration when Audre is forced to leave her home and girlfriend. Joy as she gets to know her father. Pleasant surprise at how real and amazing Mabel’s parents were (more of this, please!). Glee as Mabel and Audre develop their friendship and deepen their relationship, at the way they discover each other and life all at once. I laughed at Mabel’s love of Whitney Houston and all of her thoughts about Whitney.

If you have a chance to pick this up via audio, you’re in for a special treat from narrators Junauda Petrus (yes, the author narrates!), Bahni Turpin, and JD Jackson.