If you need content warnings, then please read:

Child sexual abuse. Everything is off page.

Wow, this was a journey. For some reason, I always thought this was just another quirky YA dystopia, but it's actually so much more. It's a look at how even when we think the world is safe, monsters still exist - but what do they look like? And how do you find them? 

Using a speculative framework to discuss something very real and traumatizing is not ground breaking in itself, but Akwaeke Emezi comes at it from a very interesting and engaging angle. Pet is awe inspiring and terrifying, and though it looks like a typical monster, its hunting a real Monster - a person that is hurting another. The thematic imagery here is obvious, but it works. Part of that is because, I think, the writing is aimed at young readers; the themes and emotions and writing presented feel like they're for an older middle grade to younger teen audience. I would 100% recommend this to young teen readers who are interested in thematically more adult reads, but nothing <i>too</i> heavy.

The audiobook was incredible. Christopher Meyers really breathed life into the characters, <i>especially</i> Pet. There's enough emotion and variation in each character to give them all life of their own and make it an interesting and engaging listen.

Overall, such a great book. I think it reads a little younger than most people think, especially with the YA tag on Goodreads, but once you adjust your expectations it's all good.