I realize that I'm not the target demographic/audience because I was thoroughly bored. I'm sure children will think differently though. I will say Steve/Glibx was super adorable! :)

I loved it! That doesn't give you a lot to work with for a review, so I guess you will have to read it for yourself. :)

A nice, little story for kids with cute animal drawings. I was under the impression that it was a graphic novel, but it is more like an extended pictured book.

Aye! I’m always excited for new fiction with black leads!

STORY:

“‘You can’t control everything, Taja,’ Daddy says in a soft voice, eyes closed to the sun.

‘I know, Daddy. But I can control a lot.'” (pg 227).

Calling My Name by Liara Tamani (384 pages) explores Taja Brown’s childhood to adulthood. It is something of a fictional biography of a young, African-American girl growing up in a conservative Christian background from childhood to adulthood. Of course, you can expect first kisses, periods, and dealings with f*boys.

I think it is a good read if you enjoy “slice-of-life/coming of age” stories. However, the writing is so flowery that I get confused often.

I can emphasize with Taja’s upbringing as I have grown up in a Christian home as well though my parents weren’t overbearing with our faith.

Still, unfortunately, the narrative of an ultra-conservative character usually isn’t that fun.

One of my favorite parts is when Taja feels guilty for reminding her father about a promised birthday present. That is a really relatable moment when you first feel “child guilt” because you know your parents don’t have the money but you want something.

Also, I realized mid-way through the story that this is set somewhere between 80’s-90’s. Some of the references are dated like them listening to Johnny Gill. Chile, who out here listening to JG?

Okay, okay... I'm one of those people. XD

A few days ago I was just listening to Johnny Gill's old Arsenio Hall performances. (yes, I know the gif is from Soul Train).

CHARACTERS:
Not too many characters were memorable. I enjoyed the glimpses we saw of Taja's family and would have liked a bit more beyond her mother always disciplining her.

Taja is cool, but she is very whiny and a bit annoying in her narrative.

Naima, Taja's younger sister, is a character that I wished we could have seen more of. Unlike Taja, she's more sure of herself. Taja and Naima's sister relationship is barely displayed save for a few conversations in their older years.

Damon, the older brother, was okay. I like how he tried to overcompensate for his thinning headline at 15.

OVERALL:
This isn't a book I would necessarily read again, but it is nice experiencing Taja's adolescence with her.