I read this book for the @megsbookstack August Read-athon “book with yellow cover or spine” prompt and I am so glad I did!
It was really really wonderful. Completely lovely and wholesome. It follows Jamie - a Jewish 17 year old boy - and Maya- a Muslim 17 year old girl - as they spend their summer canvassing the neighbourhood in their Georgia state towns for an upcoming special election.
Mixed into this story is the importance of voting, the importance of finding your voice and learning how you can fight the wrongs - even if you’re not at an age to vote - and learning how to stand up for what you think is right.
It deals with a very real life situation (as this book is inspired by true events) of when a senate representative puts forward an incredibly racist bill which is specifically designed to target Muslim women and their headwear.
Whilst covering some really important and serious topics there is also humour, love, and uniquely special moments. What I loved most are the characters in this story. They are so thought out and the story is really character focused. It was a joy to read about maya and Jamie, learn their quirks, and fall a little in love with them as they did with each other.
This book is culturally sound, written by both a Jewish and Muslim author and it was really nice to learn a bit about each of the cultures.
Certainly a book I’d recommend for anyone who wants a lighthearted summer read that still serves a purpose and packs a punch!!
TW: islamophobia and antisemitism discussion and actions