Review of Kalayla

Astral Magi · Post by **Astral Magi** » 19 Sep 2021, 04:29

[Following is a volunteer review of "Kalayla" by Jeannie Nicholas.]

4 out of 4 stars

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Kalayla is taking the world by storm. At 11 years of age, she is street smart and knows something about everything. Her mother works long hours and consequently, Kalayla is left to her own devices most of the time. With a tendency to say whatever comes to her mind, she soon captures the attention of one of the neighbors. Her uncle Clarence is also a hassle and she knows she must keep him away from her momma. Furthermore, she has doubts about the origin of the gifts he presents to them from time to time.

Lena worries about the little girl and her mother that have moved into her building. She finds out that Maureen is raising Kalayla on her own because her husband died in a car crash. Lena's history is filled with regrets and tragedy and this inspires her to keep a watchful eye on the little girl. She worries that Kalayla will stumble upon the real reason why she has never met her mother's side of the family. Lena draws comparisons between Kalayla and her own boys and hopes that she can spare the girl some of the hurt and anguish that comes with growing up.

Kalayla by Jeannie Nicholas is a book that will find its way deep into your heart. I loved how the community got involved with Maureen and Kalayla and helped them wherever they could. I also enjoyed the relationship that developed between Lena and Kalayla despite Kalayla's sharp tongue and quick temper. The interactions between these two characters are hilarious and offer comic relief from the harsh issues that are dealt with.

There was nothing that I didn't like about the book. The characters are skillfully developed, and the story has a decisive plot. Readers should have a box of tissues handy because tears are inevitably going to flow. Jeannie Nicholas explores subjects such as racial discrimination, sexual abuse, and gender-based violence in a tactful manner that draws awareness to these delicate subjects.

The book is exceptionally well edited, with a strong plot and I give it a rating of 4 out of 4 stars. I would not recommend it to people that are easily triggered or suffer from trauma related to abuse or racial discrimination. Although the story centers around a child, it is filled with adult content and isn't suitable for children. I recommend the book to a mature audience that enjoys the family drama genre and also a bit of comedy. Those that read this book will fall in love with the characters.

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Kalayla
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Neshboy Aburi · Post by **Neshboy Aburi** » 25 Sep 2021, 10:22

I like your review. I read and did a review of the same and I am glad you did not make the same mistake I made in my review. I wrote the name Kalayla in italics while referring to the character. Poor me.

Elena Nechita · Post by **Elena Nechita** » 25 Sep 2021, 11:50

I also reviewed this book and thought it was really good. The characters was the best part about the story for sure. Nice review!

Astral Magi · Post by **Astral Magi** » 25 Sep 2021, 13:35

Clifford Munene wrote: ↑25 Sep 2021, 10:22 I like your review. I read and did a review of the same and I am glad you did not make the same mistake I made in my review. I wrote the name Kalayla in italics while referring to the character. Poor me.

Oh man, I am so sorry to hear that. But we learn from our mistakes. Thank you for commenting

Astral Magi · Post by **Astral Magi** » 25 Sep 2021, 13:36

Elena Nechita wrote: ↑25 Sep 2021, 11:50 I also reviewed this book and thought it was really good. The characters was the best part about the story for sure. Nice review!

Thank you. I also loved this story.

Janet Kimetto · Post by **Janet Kimetto** » 25 Sep 2021, 15:27

I loved reviewing this book! I loved it and how it made me feel. Great review!

Unosthetic · Post by **Unosthetic** » 25 Sep 2021, 22:50

I read this book as well and my favorite part of it is the main character, Kalayla. Her character is just so unique. Especially when she's talking about her uncle Clarence. Great review!

Astral Magi · Post by **Astral Magi** » 26 Sep 2021, 02:32

C Janet wrote: ↑25 Sep 2021, 15:27 I loved reviewing this book! I loved it and how it made me feel. Great review!

It was such an inspiration. Thank you for commenting.

Astral Magi · Post by **Astral Magi** » 26 Sep 2021, 02:33

Unosthetic wrote: ↑25 Sep 2021, 22:50 I read this book as well and my favorite part of it is the main character, Kalayla. Her character is just so unique. Especially when she's talking about her uncle Clarence. Great review!

Agreed! Such a cutie. Thank you for commenting.

Bradley Shelvie · Post by **Bradley Shelvie** » 09 Nov 2021, 20:43

I loved the book too. It is very difficult finding people like Lena who decide to help total strangers. Nice review!

Paluk Pathania · Post by **Paluk Pathania** » 08 Dec 2021, 06:10

I agree with whatever you mentioned in your review. I too reviewed it a while ago and this book is a bundle of every emotion one can think about. Thanks for your review.