Wrapping up 2009, with a great book by Neesha Meminger. Shine Coconut Moon follows seventeen-year-old Samar in a post 9/11 world. She is an Indian teen struggling to make sense of this new era that crashed down on the world as well as discover who she is as an Indian-American. When her Sikh uncle walks back into her life after a 15 year absence, the life her mother has so carefully crafted for the two of them begins to crumble.
Remember what it what like as a teen? I remember life already being confusing and scary. Can you imagine being a teen now? Ms. Meminger does a great job of capturing the many intricate aspects of teen life. Her characters want to be sexy adults but also want to snuggle up with mom. Samar and her best friend Molly discuss sex, experiment with alcohol and of course spend lots of time checking out boys. (I guess some things never change. ) There was one part in the book that did make me feel like an old lady. Samar and her boyfriend chat via text message. It took me at least a minute to decipher "l8r." What is up with all the code speak? Are we in the CIA or something? Darn whippersnappers!! Anywho, Shine Coconut Moon is a lovely book. If you have a teen in your life this would be a great last minute Christmas gift. It is a beautifully crafted story of family, friendship, tolerance and embracing your heritage. This was Ms.Meminger's first novel. I look forward to seeing what other tales she will come up with. Until next time.
2 comments:
Jeanine, thank you so much for reading and reviewing SHINE! And I'm so glad you enjoyed it. All the best to you in the upcoming year, and I will look out for your titles on the shelves as well ;).
Thanks Neesha! Can't wait to read your next book!!
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