In the novel The Breakup Lists by Adib Khorram, the narrative mixes with humor to make a beautiful and funny read to pick up in your free time. Jackson Ghasnavi is a deaf theater tech for his high school and when not working on plays he is creating breakup lists for his sister and himself- lists that contain terrible things about their exes. But then Jackson and his sister share feelings for the same guy, and worse –his lists are released to the school as an act of revenge that makes Jackson once secret judgements public. The writing of the story was simple and beautiful, bringing together a novel that could encourage readers to follow the lives and drama of the characters. The personality of Jackson can be seen in the writing through the scratched out words- a trait that makes the characters more accessible to the reader. The inclusion of discriminated groups doesn’t do much to maintain interest in what can be seen as a predictable romcom. By the middle of the novel, it felt like one could stop reading since the outcome would be foreseen. Even though these parts exist, the less predictable moments in the story make the novel more surprising and enjoyable. Intermediate readers will love this fast read with authentic characters making this novel recommended for anyone.

Reviewed by OHS Student, Quinn P.

This book takes place in a world unlike any others, with complex characters and a plot that tugs at the reader’s heartstrings. Main character, Dirt, must take the place of her sister in a type of fighting competition that she has long retired from, knowing that if she fails, her family will be split apart.

At first I was unsure whether I would be able to read the entire book, because for quite a while there was very little happening. I only began to actually want to pick the book up and read it when I was more than halfway through. Additionally, there are several terms related to the fantasy world that cease to be explained either during the entire book, or for a long time. Because of this, I found a few scenes to be confusing and had to re-read them later.

I do like how surprising the plot of the book is– you can’t tell what is going to happen until it happens. I also appreciate how each character had some kind of growth throughout the story, some subtly and some dramatically. This book was also very quickly-paced at times, making the reader want to continue, whereas there were also many calmer parts of the book that felt like a breath of fresh air. The balance between the two elevated the reading experience for me. Overall, Daughters of Oduma is well-written with interesting and complex characters.

This book falls under the genres of fiction and fantasy, and contains coming-of-age themes. I think anyone who appreciates an action-filled (and slightly gruesome at times) fantasy book that still has its quiet moments will enjoy reading Daughters of Oduma.Daughters of Oduma is a good pick for any fantasy reader.