Okay it's official, Naseem Jamnia is an auto-buy author for me 🥹

It took me a while to finish The Glade (not because of the book, life happens 😅), but I have to say this was a ride.

I love how it started off so simple and innocent, yet the latter half is blend of psychological horror, eco-horror, and real-life issues concerning kids, especially BIPOC kids. We have Pina struggling with her anxiety and insecurities, desperate to grow and save her best friend. And then with the latter part of the book, it broke my heart knowing what Jo goes through as a half-Filipino kid with no connection to their roots

and no one but their white family as abusive guardians

.

I think this book explored what's it like for lonely kids, kids who are going through a tough time at home, kids who are experiencing racism and xenophobia at such a young and formative age. It's heartbreaking and harrowing to even think about.

I also quite liked the neurodivergence rep in this book. While Pina is still undiagnosed (anxiety, autism), you see it in her perspective as you read through the story. And you see her considering these things as time goes by. And I just love that and I know a lot of people will be able to relate to her and her experiences. Or maybe discover a little bit more about themselves as they read Pina's perspective.

I think The Glade is a clever metaphor for inner struggles and psychological trauma. The Glade takes vulnerable victims. And yes, at first it's a refuge. But soon, it can also take away from you. And we either let it or we try to face it head on. I think this is what we see from Pina, Jo, Eddy, and Arish throughout the story. And it was great, seeing their journey from start to finish.

(Also it is the last day of AAPI/ANHPI Month, and if you're still looking for an author or book to support, this is it!)