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How You Grow Wings
An emotionally riveting novel for fans of Ibi Zoboi and Erika L. Sánchez about two sisters in Nigeria and their journey to break free of an oppressive home.
Sisters Cheta and Zam couldn’t be more different. Cheta, sharp-tongued and stubborn, never shies away from conflict—either at school or at home, where her mother fires abuse at her. Timid Zam escapes most of her mother’s anger, skating under the radar and avoiding her sister whenever possible. In a turn of good fortune, Zam is invited to live with her aunt’s family in the lap of luxury. Jealous, Cheta also leaves home, but finds a harder existence that will drive her to terrible decisions. When the sisters are reunited, Zam alone will recognize just how far Cheta has fallen—and Cheta’s fate will rest in Zam’s hands.
Debut author Rimma Onoseta deftly explores classism, colorism, cycles of abuse, how loyalty doesn’t always come attached to love, and the messy truths that sometimes family is not a source of comfort and that morality is all shades of gray.
Sisters Cheta and Zam couldn’t be more different. Cheta, sharp-tongued and stubborn, never shies away from conflict—either at school or at home, where her mother fires abuse at her. Timid Zam escapes most of her mother’s anger, skating under the radar and avoiding her sister whenever possible. In a turn of good fortune, Zam is invited to live with her aunt’s family in the lap of luxury. Jealous, Cheta also leaves home, but finds a harder existence that will drive her to terrible decisions. When the sisters are reunited, Zam alone will recognize just how far Cheta has fallen—and Cheta’s fate will rest in Zam’s hands.
Debut author Rimma Onoseta deftly explores classism, colorism, cycles of abuse, how loyalty doesn’t always come attached to love, and the messy truths that sometimes family is not a source of comfort and that morality is all shades of gray.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published August 9, 2022
26 people are currently reading
8295 people want to read
About the author
Rimma Onoseta
2 books71 followersRimma Onoseta is a Nigerian author who writes stories she wanted to read when she was younger: stories about young girls who are chaotic and fierce and who question what they’re taught. She invites you to connect with her online at rimmaonoseta.com.
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February 12, 2024Hi! I wrote this book and I'm really excited for How You Grow Wings to be out in the world and in your hands (or ears, if you prefer audiobooks)
April 7, 2022
HOW YOU GROW WINGS is such a moving and poignant debut, and I'm so thankful for the opportunity to have read it! As a fellow Nigerian, I feel what we lack the most in contemporary stories is that YA perspective, and Rimma has done a beautiful job with this addition. The stories of two sisters growing up together but apart in modern Nigeria are intertwined with care, and are written in such a vulnerable way. I found myself empathizing with both Cheta and Zam in different ways. One sister, treated unfairly by her family and forced to find a harsher path, and the other, seemingly afforded everything but unable to speak up for herself. LOVED it.
I also have to point out the story structure and how it deviates from a primarily Western 3-act story. That's one of my favourite things about this book. Growing up around Nigerian storytelling, I felt really familiar and comforted by the way this story builds, and its subsequent resolution. It was done so beautifully. Made me feel very welcome in a way I am obviously doing a poor job at describing lol. I can't recommend this book enough!
I also have to point out the story structure and how it deviates from a primarily Western 3-act story. That's one of my favourite things about this book. Growing up around Nigerian storytelling, I felt really familiar and comforted by the way this story builds, and its subsequent resolution. It was done so beautifully. Made me feel very welcome in a way I am obviously doing a poor job at describing lol. I can't recommend this book enough!
October 28, 2022
TITLE: How You Grow Wings
AUTHOR: Rimma Onoseta
PUB DATE: 08.09.2022 Now Available
Searing
Emotional
Heartbreaking
How You Grow Wings is a debut novel set in contemporary Nigeria by author Rima Onoseta that explores the lives of sisters Cheta and Zam who lives with their abusive mother. Strong willed and vocal Cheta gets treated harshly, while Zam keeps to herself but loses her voice. The sisters end up getting separated as Zam gets to live life in luxury with some relatives, while Cheta lives a harsh life. The themes are heavy but I enjoyed reading this character driven story - a great look at nature vs nurture, colorism, intergenerational trauma, and wealth disparities.
Flawed characters are written masterfully in this story of sisterhood and survival. I enjoyed this one a lot!
AUTHOR: Rimma Onoseta
PUB DATE: 08.09.2022 Now Available
Searing
Emotional
Heartbreaking
How You Grow Wings is a debut novel set in contemporary Nigeria by author Rima Onoseta that explores the lives of sisters Cheta and Zam who lives with their abusive mother. Strong willed and vocal Cheta gets treated harshly, while Zam keeps to herself but loses her voice. The sisters end up getting separated as Zam gets to live life in luxury with some relatives, while Cheta lives a harsh life. The themes are heavy but I enjoyed reading this character driven story - a great look at nature vs nurture, colorism, intergenerational trauma, and wealth disparities.
Flawed characters are written masterfully in this story of sisterhood and survival. I enjoyed this one a lot!
August 14, 2022
2.5 ⭐️ rounded
Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC!
There are a lot of mature themes such as varying types of abuse. Nothing happy really happens in it so it was tough for me to read since it was very heavy.
I did like the concept of a dual POV playing into the notion of nature vs nurture. My only issue was that I wasn’t attached to either of them.
It was a little tough to get into because of said topics and many characters, but it was a quick-ish read overall.
Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC!
There are a lot of mature themes such as varying types of abuse. Nothing happy really happens in it so it was tough for me to read since it was very heavy.
I did like the concept of a dual POV playing into the notion of nature vs nurture. My only issue was that I wasn’t attached to either of them.
It was a little tough to get into because of said topics and many characters, but it was a quick-ish read overall.
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June 15, 2022Set in contemporary Nigeria, Onoseta's debut follows the lives of sisters Zam and Cheta who, despite having grown up in the same house, have had very different experiences with their parents. Zam gets the opportunity to leave home and live with relatives and her life expands in ways she hadn't anticipated. Cheta, still at home, is desperate for a way out and chooses several options that put her in danger.
This well-written, character-driven novel is a fascinating read about sisterhood, about racism and colorism, as well as abuse and mental health. It's a slower and quieter one, but the journey of each sister is immersive, and their journeys toward and away from each other challenging, honest, and compelling.
This well-written, character-driven novel is a fascinating read about sisterhood, about racism and colorism, as well as abuse and mental health. It's a slower and quieter one, but the journey of each sister is immersive, and their journeys toward and away from each other challenging, honest, and compelling.
August 5, 2022
~ Thank you so much Netgalley and Algonquin Young Readers for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ~
This book was unbelievably good. And a debut? Absolutely crazy. It’s a contemporary about two sisters living in Nigeria, and how they are polar opposites and treated differently by their mother. One has everything given to them but cannot speak up for herself, and the other goes down a bad path but always speaks up for herself. The characterization is incredibly good, and the story has so many flawed, multi faceted characters who leave you thinking about so many different things. It’s about finding your voice and the power of sisterhood. I so wholeheartedly loved this.
Chatty video up on my channel now - https://youtu.be/djI-9z6c18s
This book was unbelievably good. And a debut? Absolutely crazy. It’s a contemporary about two sisters living in Nigeria, and how they are polar opposites and treated differently by their mother. One has everything given to them but cannot speak up for herself, and the other goes down a bad path but always speaks up for herself. The characterization is incredibly good, and the story has so many flawed, multi faceted characters who leave you thinking about so many different things. It’s about finding your voice and the power of sisterhood. I so wholeheartedly loved this.
Chatty video up on my channel now - https://youtu.be/djI-9z6c18s
August 16, 2022
Check out my full video review: https://youtu.be/-7OhRJrR4rA
I randomly ended up with an arc of this and I really enjoyed it! I loved the settings, the deep layers of emotions and relationships between the characters. It is definitely a sad book, but it also has its more beautiful moments! I especially gasped at a *certain* event and plottwist! I also loved how real world issues and challenges had a prominent role in the book. Like colorism, class difference and abuse. 4/5 stars.
I randomly ended up with an arc of this and I really enjoyed it! I loved the settings, the deep layers of emotions and relationships between the characters. It is definitely a sad book, but it also has its more beautiful moments! I especially gasped at a *certain* event and plottwist! I also loved how real world issues and challenges had a prominent role in the book. Like colorism, class difference and abuse. 4/5 stars.
August 4, 2022
Rimma Onoseta brings us a compelling story of two sisters whose lives are filled with abuse, contempt, internalized racism, and parental favoritism.
We begin the story with Cheta and Zam. Cheta is the older sister of the two.
Cheta is bold and outspoken and suffers physical abuse from her mother.
Zam is the younger of the two, soft spoken and timid. Highly favored by their mother, not physically abused, but abused mentally. Both girls are pitted against each other, based on their mother’s dislike of her own skin color. She prefers Zam because she is the lighter of the 2 girls.
Cheta and her mother are constantly at odds with each other, while Zam get’s bullied by the both of them.
Eventually the girl’s rich aunt Sophie decides that Zam should come live with her in Abuja. Upon arriving in Abuja, Zam is unwelcomed by her cousin Kaira, the way her Aunt Sophie had hoped she would be. Instead, Zam is befriended by the family friend Ginika. Ginika turns out to be the best thing that happens to Zam while in Abuja. She helps Zam find her voice and her courage to stand up for herself.
Kaira her cousin, finally comes around after her mother (Aunt Sophie) is kidnapped along with Zam. Throughout that ordeal we learn that Kaira too, underneath all that haughtiness, is looking for acceptance from her mother, just like Cheta.
Aunty Sophie finally explains to Kaira exactly why it is she feels the way she does towards her daughter.
Throughout this the girls become closer thanks to Ginika and her forcefulness. Uncle Emeke, then forces the girls to go to school in London, because it will be safer for them after the kidnapping.
Cheta flees her mother’s abusive ways and moves to Benin to live with her friend Chizi. However! Chizi has a job at a hotel, and no matter how hard she tries Cheta cannot find a job. She ends up selling drugs for Chizi’s cousin just to make some sort of money. When a classmate tells them about a hustle being a Sugar Baby, younger women who have relationships with rich men for money. There Cheta meets a man named Samson, but that is all a set up with Chizi’s cousin Johnson.
Johnson remembered that Cheta’s uncle was Emeke, from Emeke Oil and wanted to use her to get money from him.
But Cheta is too smart for Samson and Johnson. The more she listens to them talk, the more her plans form. This is where the book turns to “I TOTALLY DID NOT SEE THAT COMING” “DAMN!!!!!”
This book deals with PTSD with almost, every character in the book. It was good to see Aunty Sophie and Kaira receiving therapy in the book. Great nod to Mental Illness and recognition.
My favorite character in the book was Ginika. She is strong willed yet knows when to lend a hand. I like how she helped Zam find her voice and stand up for herself.
Cheta I first did not like, but she is a product of her environment. What I did like about her was, she got out of that abusive situation.
Onoseta tells a tale of basically how the rich stay rich, the poor stay poor.
She tells the story of the rich history and culture of Nigeria, filled with the different dishes and sites. It is like you are truly there.
She also shows how internalized discrimination cuts just as deep inside your own home, as it does outside of it.
There unfortunately were some words that I did not understand that I wish I had.
There also was some dialect written that was hard to understand. Other than that, I thought Onoseta did a fantastic job on this book.
Looking forward to her next novel.
Kudos!!!
Thank you NetGalley/Rimma Onoseta/ Algonquin Young Readers for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
We begin the story with Cheta and Zam. Cheta is the older sister of the two.
Cheta is bold and outspoken and suffers physical abuse from her mother.
Zam is the younger of the two, soft spoken and timid. Highly favored by their mother, not physically abused, but abused mentally. Both girls are pitted against each other, based on their mother’s dislike of her own skin color. She prefers Zam because she is the lighter of the 2 girls.
Cheta and her mother are constantly at odds with each other, while Zam get’s bullied by the both of them.
Eventually the girl’s rich aunt Sophie decides that Zam should come live with her in Abuja. Upon arriving in Abuja, Zam is unwelcomed by her cousin Kaira, the way her Aunt Sophie had hoped she would be. Instead, Zam is befriended by the family friend Ginika. Ginika turns out to be the best thing that happens to Zam while in Abuja. She helps Zam find her voice and her courage to stand up for herself.
Kaira her cousin, finally comes around after her mother (Aunt Sophie) is kidnapped along with Zam. Throughout that ordeal we learn that Kaira too, underneath all that haughtiness, is looking for acceptance from her mother, just like Cheta.
Aunty Sophie finally explains to Kaira exactly why it is she feels the way she does towards her daughter.
Throughout this the girls become closer thanks to Ginika and her forcefulness. Uncle Emeke, then forces the girls to go to school in London, because it will be safer for them after the kidnapping.
Cheta flees her mother’s abusive ways and moves to Benin to live with her friend Chizi. However! Chizi has a job at a hotel, and no matter how hard she tries Cheta cannot find a job. She ends up selling drugs for Chizi’s cousin just to make some sort of money. When a classmate tells them about a hustle being a Sugar Baby, younger women who have relationships with rich men for money. There Cheta meets a man named Samson, but that is all a set up with Chizi’s cousin Johnson.
Johnson remembered that Cheta’s uncle was Emeke, from Emeke Oil and wanted to use her to get money from him.
But Cheta is too smart for Samson and Johnson. The more she listens to them talk, the more her plans form. This is where the book turns to “I TOTALLY DID NOT SEE THAT COMING” “DAMN!!!!!”
This book deals with PTSD with almost, every character in the book. It was good to see Aunty Sophie and Kaira receiving therapy in the book. Great nod to Mental Illness and recognition.
My favorite character in the book was Ginika. She is strong willed yet knows when to lend a hand. I like how she helped Zam find her voice and stand up for herself.
Cheta I first did not like, but she is a product of her environment. What I did like about her was, she got out of that abusive situation.
Onoseta tells a tale of basically how the rich stay rich, the poor stay poor.
She tells the story of the rich history and culture of Nigeria, filled with the different dishes and sites. It is like you are truly there.
She also shows how internalized discrimination cuts just as deep inside your own home, as it does outside of it.
There unfortunately were some words that I did not understand that I wish I had.
There also was some dialect written that was hard to understand. Other than that, I thought Onoseta did a fantastic job on this book.
Looking forward to her next novel.
Kudos!!!
Thank you NetGalley/Rimma Onoseta/ Algonquin Young Readers for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 3, 2022
A huge thanks to the author and Algonquin Young Readers for my complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own .
What a moving debut set in modern day Nigeria. The story follows two sisters Zam and Cheta who grow up in a household with a difficult mother. One gets the opportunity to leave while the other stays behind to find her own path . They each have to find their own path and eventually to each other. One builds ‘resilience’ as their mother is overbearing and the other staying with the rich aunt and uncle struggles to find her own voice I cannot recommend this book enough! Help us all if you read it without ensuring your wig is fastened properly because the mother can drive a sane person bonkers
What a moving debut set in modern day Nigeria. The story follows two sisters Zam and Cheta who grow up in a household with a difficult mother. One gets the opportunity to leave while the other stays behind to find her own path . They each have to find their own path and eventually to each other. One builds ‘resilience’ as their mother is overbearing and the other staying with the rich aunt and uncle struggles to find her own voice I cannot recommend this book enough! Help us all if you read it without ensuring your wig is fastened properly because the mother can drive a sane person bonkers
February 3, 2024
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Before I say anything, I have to preface this by saying that this is my first YA of the year, and I've been reading a lot of literary fiction. So this book felt like a breeze, even though it dealt with some pretty heavy issues.
It's set in Nigeria and features two sisters, one of whom gets to go live with her rich aunt while the other has to stay home in a tough family setting. I flew through this book. There was a lot I loved about it - the complicated sister relationship, the discussion on caste and place, the way family trauma impacts future generations.
Honestly, I think if I hadn't come off a month of reading really literary stuff, I probably would have rated this higher. It was pretty darn good.
Before I say anything, I have to preface this by saying that this is my first YA of the year, and I've been reading a lot of literary fiction. So this book felt like a breeze, even though it dealt with some pretty heavy issues.
It's set in Nigeria and features two sisters, one of whom gets to go live with her rich aunt while the other has to stay home in a tough family setting. I flew through this book. There was a lot I loved about it - the complicated sister relationship, the discussion on caste and place, the way family trauma impacts future generations.
Honestly, I think if I hadn't come off a month of reading really literary stuff, I probably would have rated this higher. It was pretty darn good.
April 28, 2022
An interesting exploration of family dynamics, with particular focus on the different relationships children can have with their parents and the impact that has on their interactions with their siblings. I enjoyed the use of multiple perspectives as it allowed us to get to know, and empathise with, both of the primary characters. Definitely a book for older teens, this could be a very interesting source of discussion about how race, class and gender impact on our experiences of growing up. Thank you to NetGalley.co.uk and Algonquin Young Readers for a free eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2022
I absolutely LOVED this book!! I listened to it, the narrator’s were so eloquent and drew you in. I enjoyed the fact that she incorporated the native language in the novel, i really enjoyed the storyline. It is not for the weak of heart!! It really shows how colorism can run so deep even in families. I hate the fact that the main antagonist (mama) was not remorseful by the end of the book but in a sense that just makes the book realistic. 5 stars all the way!!!!
August 6, 2022
Sometimes I read a debut novel and have to go back and check again that it’s a debut, because it’s so riveting or well-written or beautifully emotional that I imagine an author must have several books under their belt. This was one of those, and I’m still surprised that this was a debut book!
A YA novel from the perspectives of two very different Nigerian sisters, How You Grow Wings is an emotional and beautiful story. The book covers topics like domestic abuse, socioeconomic class lines, privilege, colorism, mental health, and family trauma.
Because the book is written from the points of view of both sisters, the reader is able to see their family’s dysfunction from both sets of eyes and understand the pain, resentment, and vulnerability each sister has. I was able to empathize with the big emotions of both sisters, and I loved seeing both of them on their unique journeys.
I really enjoyed this book, and I’ll definitely be looking for future works from this author!
Thanks so much to Netgalley and Algonquin Young Readers for this advanced readers copy!
August 3, 2022
I've been very luck to receive an E-ARC of this beauty as well as the audiobook so thank you so much to Rimma Onoseta and Algonquin Young Readers!
This debut follows the story of two sisters who live in Nigeria under the oppressive power of their mother, both trying to break free on their own terms and opportunities. Cheta and Zam are two polar opposites living in the same house, one stubborn enough to put fuel on fire, the other silent through the chaos.
I haven't read many books set in Africa before, but when I did, they always left an impact. I live in Egypt, which is not that far off from Nigeria, so it was interesting to see the stark change of the culture and opportunities in both countries. Even though Abuja and the place where the sisters lived was different, it was eye-opening to see how different people lived in both places.
This story deals with classim and abuse at its finest (so please check the trigger warnings first before reading)! I liked how the author explored the different family dynamics in this story, how messy it could get, how attachment works differently for different people, how silence and loyalty can merge to become one, how ugly truths can bond people together and how in the midst of the ugliness, there's always hope.
I especially liked the relationship (or lack thereof) between Zam and Cheta, and how we follow both their journey through a dual perspective which adds so much depth and emotions to the story. I was surprised by how a twist made them meet at the end, but I found it to be the most realistic ending to that story. I have to say, it did not even feel YA to me, which just goes to show how this book has many layers you get to peel whilst reading.
I also have to say that listening to the audiobook of this story whilst reading it was an EXPERIENCE. I loved how the accents were all genuine and authentic, giving the reader the vibe as if present with the sisters on their journey to freedom. The different accents, the slang, the narrators, everything made this worthwhile and helped me fall in love with this book even more. It made the characters come to life!
I read this book in a sitting and would definitely highly recommend!
This debut follows the story of two sisters who live in Nigeria under the oppressive power of their mother, both trying to break free on their own terms and opportunities. Cheta and Zam are two polar opposites living in the same house, one stubborn enough to put fuel on fire, the other silent through the chaos.
I haven't read many books set in Africa before, but when I did, they always left an impact. I live in Egypt, which is not that far off from Nigeria, so it was interesting to see the stark change of the culture and opportunities in both countries. Even though Abuja and the place where the sisters lived was different, it was eye-opening to see how different people lived in both places.
This story deals with classim and abuse at its finest (so please check the trigger warnings first before reading)! I liked how the author explored the different family dynamics in this story, how messy it could get, how attachment works differently for different people, how silence and loyalty can merge to become one, how ugly truths can bond people together and how in the midst of the ugliness, there's always hope.
I especially liked the relationship (or lack thereof) between Zam and Cheta, and how we follow both their journey through a dual perspective which adds so much depth and emotions to the story. I was surprised by how a twist made them meet at the end, but I found it to be the most realistic ending to that story. I have to say, it did not even feel YA to me, which just goes to show how this book has many layers you get to peel whilst reading.
I also have to say that listening to the audiobook of this story whilst reading it was an EXPERIENCE. I loved how the accents were all genuine and authentic, giving the reader the vibe as if present with the sisters on their journey to freedom. The different accents, the slang, the narrators, everything made this worthwhile and helped me fall in love with this book even more. It made the characters come to life!
I read this book in a sitting and would definitely highly recommend!
March 14, 2023
"How You Grow Wings" is an emotionally gripping novel that tells the story of two sisters in Nigeria who struggle to break free from an oppressive home. Cheta, the older sister, is sharp-tongued and unyielding, while her younger sister Zam is timid and withdrawn. Their mother is abusive, and both sisters face challenges in their own unique ways.
Zam gets the opportunity to live with their aunt's family, but Cheta is left behind and forced to make her way in a harsher world. When the sisters are reunited, they realize just how much their lives have changed, and Zam is forced to confront the reality of her sister's struggles.
Rimma Onoseta's debut novel is a powerful exploration of complex issues such as classism, colorism, and cycles of abuse. The author's writing style is poetic and evocative, bringing the characters and their world to life in vivid detail. The novel is both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking, delving deep into the messy truths about family, loyalty, and morality.
Overall, "How You Grow Wings" is a stunning debut novel that will stay with readers long after they've turned the final page. Onoseta's unique perspective and powerful storytelling make this a must-read for fans of contemporary fiction. Highly recommended.
Zam gets the opportunity to live with their aunt's family, but Cheta is left behind and forced to make her way in a harsher world. When the sisters are reunited, they realize just how much their lives have changed, and Zam is forced to confront the reality of her sister's struggles.
Rimma Onoseta's debut novel is a powerful exploration of complex issues such as classism, colorism, and cycles of abuse. The author's writing style is poetic and evocative, bringing the characters and their world to life in vivid detail. The novel is both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking, delving deep into the messy truths about family, loyalty, and morality.
Overall, "How You Grow Wings" is a stunning debut novel that will stay with readers long after they've turned the final page. Onoseta's unique perspective and powerful storytelling make this a must-read for fans of contemporary fiction. Highly recommended.
July 2, 2022
**Thank you Netgalley and Algonquin for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. How to Grow Wings releases August 9th.
This is a stunning debut novel by Rimma Onoseta about two Nigerian sisters who go on separate paths. One is given the opportunity to live with a rich aunt and uncle. The other leaves home with very little to escape an overbearing and abusive mother. Each sister has their own challenges in their new lives and eventually their paths cross again. This is a story told in dual perspectives about family, sisterhood, strength and friendship that intertwines themes like class, racism, abuse, mental health, colorism, code switching and class variations. I highly recommend it.
This is a stunning debut novel by Rimma Onoseta about two Nigerian sisters who go on separate paths. One is given the opportunity to live with a rich aunt and uncle. The other leaves home with very little to escape an overbearing and abusive mother. Each sister has their own challenges in their new lives and eventually their paths cross again. This is a story told in dual perspectives about family, sisterhood, strength and friendship that intertwines themes like class, racism, abuse, mental health, colorism, code switching and class variations. I highly recommend it.
December 2, 2025
Very enthralling read kept me on my toes the entire time and had a good mix of emotions. It does have some triggers for sure (rape, kidnapping, murder, panic attacks, parental abuse). But kept me interested the whole book and I really felt connected to each character.
February 20, 2024
This book was very moving and opened my eyes to how people can be affected by their family and relationships.
October 11, 2022
This is a beautifully written and heart wrenching look at a family influenced by their Nigerian culture and so many other outside factors. Truly wonderful and complicated.
February 9, 2022
4.5 rounded down
trigger warnings: abuse, physical abuse / beatings, verbal abuse, one time mention of pseudo-incest (not related by blood but family members who grew up together), skin bleaching, inappropriate teacher/student relationships (mentioned), death of a grandparent, on page panic attack (x2), kidnapping, gun violence, drugs & selling drugs, mentions of drug abuse
this was a stunning debut of rimma onoseta, and i truly cannot recommend it to all of my friends enough. i did round down from 5 stars, as it was a bit dense at points and it was very abuse-heavy. i also found it slightly difficult to start and get in to, but once i was a few chapters in, the story very quickly picked up.
do not go into this book expecting a plot driven, large scale adventure. this book is a small story, it focuses on a small cast and their life experiences and is heavily character driven. but that does not make it any less powerful. there is a focus on color, on race, on class, on family dynamics, and on wealth disparities.
i loved the alternating POVs between the sisters; we were able to sympathize with both situations, even if they weren't able to empathize with each other. this story is profound and stays with you long after you close the book and read the last sentence.
i will be picking up this author's future works. i highly recommend.
thank you to Algonquin Young Readers, Rimma Onoseta, and Netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
trigger warnings: abuse, physical abuse / beatings, verbal abuse, one time mention of pseudo-incest (not related by blood but family members who grew up together), skin bleaching, inappropriate teacher/student relationships (mentioned), death of a grandparent, on page panic attack (x2), kidnapping, gun violence, drugs & selling drugs, mentions of drug abuse
this was a stunning debut of rimma onoseta, and i truly cannot recommend it to all of my friends enough. i did round down from 5 stars, as it was a bit dense at points and it was very abuse-heavy. i also found it slightly difficult to start and get in to, but once i was a few chapters in, the story very quickly picked up.
do not go into this book expecting a plot driven, large scale adventure. this book is a small story, it focuses on a small cast and their life experiences and is heavily character driven. but that does not make it any less powerful. there is a focus on color, on race, on class, on family dynamics, and on wealth disparities.
i loved the alternating POVs between the sisters; we were able to sympathize with both situations, even if they weren't able to empathize with each other. this story is profound and stays with you long after you close the book and read the last sentence.
i will be picking up this author's future works. i highly recommend.
thank you to Algonquin Young Readers, Rimma Onoseta, and Netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
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March 13, 2023“How You Grow Wings,” is a fictional book written by Rimma Onoseta. This book takes place in Nigeria, in a poor small town. The two main characters are sisters, Cheta and Zam, who have to live everyday in their oppressive, abusive household. Cheta, the older sister, is 17, and counting the days until she can leave her childhood home. She is controversial and sharp, she questions everything, and she is constantly undermining authority. Zam, her younger sister, is the polar opposite, she is submissive, obedient, and quiet, keeping all her fears and thoughts to herself. As a result of their oppressive household, the sisters' relationship is terrible. Cheta resents Zam for being her mother’s favorite and never standing up to her, especially when her mother is abusing Cheta. Zam on the other hand, feels agitated and hurt from Cheta, who she feels hates her for simply trying to survive and not get hurt. When Zam is chosen to come live with the sister’s rich Uncle far away, Cheta’s hatred and resentment intensifies, and the sisters relationship gets even worse. As the book progresses, we see both Zam and Cheta’s perspective on many different events in their childhood, how it resulted in the relationship they have today, and how their abusive mother played such a big role in that. This book makes you realize that relationships are so intricate, and that there is never just one side that is right and one side that is wrong. The infinite complexities in the book really get you to think and ponder with Zam and Cheta. Things like even if she is my sister do I hate her? Or do I hate what she reminds me of? Do I hate how she reacted to the situation? Or do I hate that I was even put into this situation?
One thing that was so well written in this book was the character. Cheta is very emotionally complex. When she is first introduced Zam describes that being around her is “oppressive, that is what the quick cut, the sharp sting and then the overwhelming roll of heat and exhaustion that lasts a day, a lifetime.” (Pg 23) This immediately gives us the impression that Cheta is a mean and judgmental person, who seems to hate Zam for no reason. However, as we dive deeper into the book we learn more about things from Cheta’s perspective. When Cheta is kicked out of the school choir for punching someone, everyone sees her as a violent and aggressive child, and only adds to her mothers disapproval of her. However, later when the story is written from Chetas perspective, the story looks a little different. The girl she punched was bullying Zam, and Cheta saw how “Zam of course was not standing up for herself, once again letting everyone walk all over her.” (Pg 121) This happens later in the book as well, when Cheta stops Zam from being alone in a room with the teacher who was a rapist. Cheta may have had a bad relationship but she protected her. She has an angry resentment towards Zam, because she is weak and helpless, therefore submissive and the favorite. But she also has a strong love and protectiveness towards her sister, even with all the hatred, she can not let her suffer. Cheta is brave, she defies her mother even as she keeps abusing her, because she has beliefs and she knows what her mother is doing is wrong. In contrast to Zam, she is not in denial of who their mother is, and she is looking for a way to leave the hell she has been born into.
One thing that really reflected the mood of how the characters felt, was the setting. The author ties a lot of the characters' emotions to a certain place that they have experienced these emotions. Both Zam and Cheta see their childhood home as a place filled with sadness and restriction. Zam even says that “Everytime I enter this place it is like I’m holding my breath. Holding it in, so that the thin walls don’t hear my sharp exhale.” When Zam leaves her home to the fancy mansion with her Aunt, she experiences a freedom that she has never felt before. In the mansion, she feels independent, and she begins to be opened up to new ideas about herself and life. Before she was simply a robot, following what her mother did, but with the change in setting and environment, she begins to use her critical thinking when it comes to her life. Cheta also is greatly affected by her setting as shown. Like Zam, she feels choked inside her own home, as well as alone, as if everyone else in the household is against her. But she takes care of an old lady that lives in a house a few blocks away, and there, she can breathe. While it is quiet like her house, it is a different kind of quiet. It is an independent quiet where no one is telling her she is less then, or too loud. She says how “I like laying here when I’m done with the market, staring at the gray ceiling, feeling my heart beat slowly slow.” (Pg 54)
I found a theme in the story that I thought was very important. Oppressive and abusive households directly affect sibling relationships. Cheta and Zam’s mother is very cruel towards Cheta, often physically abusing her, because Cheta is defiant and doesn’t let herself get pushed around. However, with Zam, her mother clearly favors her, showing obvious signs in front of Cheta that Zam is her favorite, because Zam is obedient and quiet. Their mother’s actions created a terrible relationship between Cheta and Zam. Cheta is angry that Zam does not get abused like she does, she sees Zam as a pushover, and weak, and deep down she is also hurt because even though her mother is a terrible person, she is her mother. She wants her to love her. In the end of the story she even says to her “Mama why don’t you love me? What have I ever done that deserves this hatred? And what has she done (Zam) to deflect it?” (Pg 315)
While Zam seems to be favored, that does not mean she is happy. There is a price to pay for her obedience, as she is always holding her tongue even when her mother does the most unspeakable things to the people she loves. Zam is also angry at Cheta, because she doesn’t understand why she can’t just behave, and spare herself from always being abused. She hates seeing her abused, because she loves her sister, and instead of recognizing who is causing the abuse (her mom) she is angry at Cheta. Zam cares about Cheta, but she hates her as well, for making her feel terrible for being the favorite, when Zam is just trying to get by and survive.
I really liked this book.Their were parts in it that made me feel sick to my stomach, but it was so well written because it gets the reader to truly be in the character’s shoes, to see what kind of pain they go through. The story was so well written, with a couple really good plot twists that I didn't expect. The characters are all so complex, even “the villains.” There were also funny moments incorporated with the sad ones, and moments that were touching and loving. I would highly recommend this book. It’s a really great read and is written beautifully.
One thing that was so well written in this book was the character. Cheta is very emotionally complex. When she is first introduced Zam describes that being around her is “oppressive, that is what the quick cut, the sharp sting and then the overwhelming roll of heat and exhaustion that lasts a day, a lifetime.” (Pg 23) This immediately gives us the impression that Cheta is a mean and judgmental person, who seems to hate Zam for no reason. However, as we dive deeper into the book we learn more about things from Cheta’s perspective. When Cheta is kicked out of the school choir for punching someone, everyone sees her as a violent and aggressive child, and only adds to her mothers disapproval of her. However, later when the story is written from Chetas perspective, the story looks a little different. The girl she punched was bullying Zam, and Cheta saw how “Zam of course was not standing up for herself, once again letting everyone walk all over her.” (Pg 121) This happens later in the book as well, when Cheta stops Zam from being alone in a room with the teacher who was a rapist. Cheta may have had a bad relationship but she protected her. She has an angry resentment towards Zam, because she is weak and helpless, therefore submissive and the favorite. But she also has a strong love and protectiveness towards her sister, even with all the hatred, she can not let her suffer. Cheta is brave, she defies her mother even as she keeps abusing her, because she has beliefs and she knows what her mother is doing is wrong. In contrast to Zam, she is not in denial of who their mother is, and she is looking for a way to leave the hell she has been born into.
One thing that really reflected the mood of how the characters felt, was the setting. The author ties a lot of the characters' emotions to a certain place that they have experienced these emotions. Both Zam and Cheta see their childhood home as a place filled with sadness and restriction. Zam even says that “Everytime I enter this place it is like I’m holding my breath. Holding it in, so that the thin walls don’t hear my sharp exhale.” When Zam leaves her home to the fancy mansion with her Aunt, she experiences a freedom that she has never felt before. In the mansion, she feels independent, and she begins to be opened up to new ideas about herself and life. Before she was simply a robot, following what her mother did, but with the change in setting and environment, she begins to use her critical thinking when it comes to her life. Cheta also is greatly affected by her setting as shown. Like Zam, she feels choked inside her own home, as well as alone, as if everyone else in the household is against her. But she takes care of an old lady that lives in a house a few blocks away, and there, she can breathe. While it is quiet like her house, it is a different kind of quiet. It is an independent quiet where no one is telling her she is less then, or too loud. She says how “I like laying here when I’m done with the market, staring at the gray ceiling, feeling my heart beat slowly slow.” (Pg 54)
I found a theme in the story that I thought was very important. Oppressive and abusive households directly affect sibling relationships. Cheta and Zam’s mother is very cruel towards Cheta, often physically abusing her, because Cheta is defiant and doesn’t let herself get pushed around. However, with Zam, her mother clearly favors her, showing obvious signs in front of Cheta that Zam is her favorite, because Zam is obedient and quiet. Their mother’s actions created a terrible relationship between Cheta and Zam. Cheta is angry that Zam does not get abused like she does, she sees Zam as a pushover, and weak, and deep down she is also hurt because even though her mother is a terrible person, she is her mother. She wants her to love her. In the end of the story she even says to her “Mama why don’t you love me? What have I ever done that deserves this hatred? And what has she done (Zam) to deflect it?” (Pg 315)
While Zam seems to be favored, that does not mean she is happy. There is a price to pay for her obedience, as she is always holding her tongue even when her mother does the most unspeakable things to the people she loves. Zam is also angry at Cheta, because she doesn’t understand why she can’t just behave, and spare herself from always being abused. She hates seeing her abused, because she loves her sister, and instead of recognizing who is causing the abuse (her mom) she is angry at Cheta. Zam cares about Cheta, but she hates her as well, for making her feel terrible for being the favorite, when Zam is just trying to get by and survive.
I really liked this book.Their were parts in it that made me feel sick to my stomach, but it was so well written because it gets the reader to truly be in the character’s shoes, to see what kind of pain they go through. The story was so well written, with a couple really good plot twists that I didn't expect. The characters are all so complex, even “the villains.” There were also funny moments incorporated with the sad ones, and moments that were touching and loving. I would highly recommend this book. It’s a really great read and is written beautifully.
January 30, 2022
I received an ARC of this book.
A fluid and gorgeously written exploration of family dynamics and oppression, backed by a ton of heart and lovable, complex characters. I'm a sucker for a good family story (especially one about siblings), because I feel like it's still an underexplored dynamic. Onoseta's sharp prose carries the twists and falls of Cheta and Zam's fraught relationship. I really cared about the characters in this book. This isn't a loud story, but it doesn't have to be. It dwells beautifully in small moments and approaches issues of class, color, and relationships with nuance.
While billed as YA, I hope adult readers don't look past this one, because it would be a great fit for upmarket readers.
A fluid and gorgeously written exploration of family dynamics and oppression, backed by a ton of heart and lovable, complex characters. I'm a sucker for a good family story (especially one about siblings), because I feel like it's still an underexplored dynamic. Onoseta's sharp prose carries the twists and falls of Cheta and Zam's fraught relationship. I really cared about the characters in this book. This isn't a loud story, but it doesn't have to be. It dwells beautifully in small moments and approaches issues of class, color, and relationships with nuance.
While billed as YA, I hope adult readers don't look past this one, because it would be a great fit for upmarket readers.
July 24, 2022
With wings you can take flight and change the course of your destiny (my words).
This novel read like a "day in the life" of Nigerian sisters. Although having grown up in the same home Cheta and Zam have different life experiences. The cancer, that is their mother, spoils everything around her - including the sisters' relationship with each other.
What unfolds is how these sisters escape their home life and reconcile their strained relationship.
Thank you Algonquin for this e-ARC.
This novel read like a "day in the life" of Nigerian sisters. Although having grown up in the same home Cheta and Zam have different life experiences. The cancer, that is their mother, spoils everything around her - including the sisters' relationship with each other.
What unfolds is how these sisters escape their home life and reconcile their strained relationship.
Thank you Algonquin for this e-ARC.
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August 11, 2022
Trigger & Content Warnings
Classism
Colourism
Physical & verbal child abuse
Panic attacks, on-page
Drug abuse mentioned
Death of a grandparent
Gun violence
Kidnapping
Classism
Colourism
Physical & verbal child abuse
Panic attacks, on-page
Drug abuse mentioned
Death of a grandparent
Gun violence
Kidnapping
August 7, 2022
What worked:
This book offers a contrast in the lives of two Nigerian sisters, daughters of a physically and mentally abusive mother. Their stories are shared in alternating chapters. Cheta is the older sister and bears the brunt of her mother’s anger. She’s headstrong and defiant and refuses to be cowed which infuriates her mother further. On the other hand, the abuse rarely targets Zam as she tries to be obedient and inoffensive toward others. Cheta perceives her sister as the cherished daughter which only fuels her feelings of persecution. She’s tormented when outshined by her younger sister although she’s quick to come to Zam’s defense. Zam slowly learns to deal with her severe anxiety and her transformation as a developing woman is remarkable.
The Nigerian family culture depicted in the story is quite different from what readers may be used to. Strict discipline is enforced by many parents and they are not to be questioned or defied. A cousin is brutally beaten by her father in the opening chapter while other adults watch. Some of them are uncomfortable with the assault but no one tries to intervene. Cheta once slapped her mother in retaliation so she’s now forced to dodge knives, pots, and other objects flung at her. Men are viewed as the dominant gender although women seem to have inner disgust toward them. A wealthy uncle and aunt are publicly revered, and secretly despised, and life in their gated mansion is quite different from Zam’s humble home. An independent-thinking housemate becomes a close friend and mentor as Zam learns to survive life’s challenges.
Obviously, this book addresses mental and emotional health. Cheta has the larger challenge due to her lack of support from her parents. Her mother is the source of her anguish and her father is withdrawn and rarely interacts with others. She has no money and lacks options to escape the situation. Seeking help from friends may land her in even more unsavory situations. Zam’s been suffering panic attacks for years but thinks she’s being punished by God and doesn’t deserve any help. Life with her aunt and uncle is better financially but the mansion is the scene of its own drama. Her cousin isn’t receptive to Zam’s presence and Zam’s actions around the mansion staff aren’t normal for family members. She feels guilt for leaving her sister behind and experiences additional stress after her mother’s phone calls. Each sister learns to cope with their emotions in different ways.
What didn’t work as well:
The tone of the story is pretty dreary especially when sharing Cheta’s life around her mother. Zam’s life living with her aunt and uncle is better but she still finds conflict within the mansion and is forced to deal with severe anxiety. The plot doesn’t have a clear goal in the first half of the book so it’s unclear where it’s headed. However, it becomes dual stories of survival although the sisters have drastically different roads to follow.
The Final Verdict:
This book doesn’t share an uplifting, inspiring story but it tells of the emotional battles faced by two sisters. They face contrasting challenges of poverty and wealth that will evoke a wide range of feelings from readers. I recommend you give the book a shot.
This book offers a contrast in the lives of two Nigerian sisters, daughters of a physically and mentally abusive mother. Their stories are shared in alternating chapters. Cheta is the older sister and bears the brunt of her mother’s anger. She’s headstrong and defiant and refuses to be cowed which infuriates her mother further. On the other hand, the abuse rarely targets Zam as she tries to be obedient and inoffensive toward others. Cheta perceives her sister as the cherished daughter which only fuels her feelings of persecution. She’s tormented when outshined by her younger sister although she’s quick to come to Zam’s defense. Zam slowly learns to deal with her severe anxiety and her transformation as a developing woman is remarkable.
The Nigerian family culture depicted in the story is quite different from what readers may be used to. Strict discipline is enforced by many parents and they are not to be questioned or defied. A cousin is brutally beaten by her father in the opening chapter while other adults watch. Some of them are uncomfortable with the assault but no one tries to intervene. Cheta once slapped her mother in retaliation so she’s now forced to dodge knives, pots, and other objects flung at her. Men are viewed as the dominant gender although women seem to have inner disgust toward them. A wealthy uncle and aunt are publicly revered, and secretly despised, and life in their gated mansion is quite different from Zam’s humble home. An independent-thinking housemate becomes a close friend and mentor as Zam learns to survive life’s challenges.
Obviously, this book addresses mental and emotional health. Cheta has the larger challenge due to her lack of support from her parents. Her mother is the source of her anguish and her father is withdrawn and rarely interacts with others. She has no money and lacks options to escape the situation. Seeking help from friends may land her in even more unsavory situations. Zam’s been suffering panic attacks for years but thinks she’s being punished by God and doesn’t deserve any help. Life with her aunt and uncle is better financially but the mansion is the scene of its own drama. Her cousin isn’t receptive to Zam’s presence and Zam’s actions around the mansion staff aren’t normal for family members. She feels guilt for leaving her sister behind and experiences additional stress after her mother’s phone calls. Each sister learns to cope with their emotions in different ways.
What didn’t work as well:
The tone of the story is pretty dreary especially when sharing Cheta’s life around her mother. Zam’s life living with her aunt and uncle is better but she still finds conflict within the mansion and is forced to deal with severe anxiety. The plot doesn’t have a clear goal in the first half of the book so it’s unclear where it’s headed. However, it becomes dual stories of survival although the sisters have drastically different roads to follow.
The Final Verdict:
This book doesn’t share an uplifting, inspiring story but it tells of the emotional battles faced by two sisters. They face contrasting challenges of poverty and wealth that will evoke a wide range of feelings from readers. I recommend you give the book a shot.
September 2, 2022
Disclaimer: I received this finished copy from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: How You Grow Wings
Author: Rimma Onoseta
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Nigerian MCs and characters
Recommended For...: young adult readers, contemporary, Nigeria, Nigerian characters, realistic fiction, family, sisterhood
Publication Date: August 9, 2022
Genre: YA Contemporary
Age Relevance: 16+ (religion, religious trauma, violence, child abuse, sexual content, sexism, colorism, animal violence, animal death, rape, death, grief, racism, colonization, panic attack, cursing, kidnapping, PTSD, addiction, depression)
Explanation of Above: Religion and religious trauma are discussed and shown throughout the novel, including bits about purity culture and it shows how toxic it can be. There is physical violence shown and child abuse is shown and mentioned. There’s also a kidnapping scene. Death and grief are shown in the book. There is some sexism shown and sexual content is mentioned as well, including adultery. Colorism and racism are mentioned and shown in the book. There is some animal violence via a chicken fight and mentions of killing a chicken for food. Rape is mentioned, but not shown. Colonization is discussed. There is a scene with a panic attack and PTSD is shown. Addiction and depression is also shown and discussed.
Publisher: Algonquin Young Readers
Pages: 336
Synopsis: Sisters Cheta and Zam couldn’t be more different. Cheta, sharp-tongued and stubborn, never shies away from conflict—either at school or at home, where her mother fires abuse at her. Timid Zam escapes most of her mother’s anger, skating under the radar and avoiding her sister whenever possible. In a turn of good fortune, Zam is invited to live with her aunt’s family in the lap of luxury. Jealous, Cheta also leaves home, but finds a harder existence that will drive her to terrible decisions. When the sisters are reunited, Zam alone will recognize just how far Cheta has fallen—and Cheta’s fate will rest in Zam’s hands.
Debut author Rimma Onoseta deftly explores classism, colorism, cycles of abuse, how loyalty doesn’t always come attached to love, and the messy truths that sometimes family is not a source of comfort and that morality is all shades of gray.
Review: I really liked this book! I loved how the chapters were done and showcased each sister. While both sisters had a hard life with their own set of unique struggles, I liked how each was framed and how the theme of the book was sisterhood and what that can look like. The book did excellent to discuss different issues as well and it’s probably one of the best contemporary books I’ve read recently. The character development was superb and the world building was also well done.
The only issue I had with the book is that I wanted more of a conclusion to the book. It kind of ends and it’s a cliff hanger of sorts as to what the next chapters in the sisters’ lives are. I’d love to see a continuation as to what happens to the both of them.
Verdict: It was excellent! Highly recommend!
Book: How You Grow Wings
Author: Rimma Onoseta
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Nigerian MCs and characters
Recommended For...: young adult readers, contemporary, Nigeria, Nigerian characters, realistic fiction, family, sisterhood
Publication Date: August 9, 2022
Genre: YA Contemporary
Age Relevance: 16+ (religion, religious trauma, violence, child abuse, sexual content, sexism, colorism, animal violence, animal death, rape, death, grief, racism, colonization, panic attack, cursing, kidnapping, PTSD, addiction, depression)
Explanation of Above: Religion and religious trauma are discussed and shown throughout the novel, including bits about purity culture and it shows how toxic it can be. There is physical violence shown and child abuse is shown and mentioned. There’s also a kidnapping scene. Death and grief are shown in the book. There is some sexism shown and sexual content is mentioned as well, including adultery. Colorism and racism are mentioned and shown in the book. There is some animal violence via a chicken fight and mentions of killing a chicken for food. Rape is mentioned, but not shown. Colonization is discussed. There is a scene with a panic attack and PTSD is shown. Addiction and depression is also shown and discussed.
Publisher: Algonquin Young Readers
Pages: 336
Synopsis: Sisters Cheta and Zam couldn’t be more different. Cheta, sharp-tongued and stubborn, never shies away from conflict—either at school or at home, where her mother fires abuse at her. Timid Zam escapes most of her mother’s anger, skating under the radar and avoiding her sister whenever possible. In a turn of good fortune, Zam is invited to live with her aunt’s family in the lap of luxury. Jealous, Cheta also leaves home, but finds a harder existence that will drive her to terrible decisions. When the sisters are reunited, Zam alone will recognize just how far Cheta has fallen—and Cheta’s fate will rest in Zam’s hands.
Debut author Rimma Onoseta deftly explores classism, colorism, cycles of abuse, how loyalty doesn’t always come attached to love, and the messy truths that sometimes family is not a source of comfort and that morality is all shades of gray.
Review: I really liked this book! I loved how the chapters were done and showcased each sister. While both sisters had a hard life with their own set of unique struggles, I liked how each was framed and how the theme of the book was sisterhood and what that can look like. The book did excellent to discuss different issues as well and it’s probably one of the best contemporary books I’ve read recently. The character development was superb and the world building was also well done.
The only issue I had with the book is that I wanted more of a conclusion to the book. It kind of ends and it’s a cliff hanger of sorts as to what the next chapters in the sisters’ lives are. I’d love to see a continuation as to what happens to the both of them.
Verdict: It was excellent! Highly recommend!
March 31, 2025
reading this book made me feel like someone saw my life and deciding to put it into writing. the complicated relationship with their parents and themselves portrayed through the two sisters was all too familiar. i sympathized with zam as an older sister who felt the favoritism and with cheta as i saw my younger brother fall on the opposing end. i saw the twisted and manipulative ways of the mother in my own nigerian mother (i even sent a picture of a page to my brother, the situation when cheta held her mothers hand to stop a beating played out word for word between my brother and mother one day). if i was reading this book alone i would have bawled like a baby but i was in public fighting back tears. i wanted a happy ending for these girls but as the end of the book drew close i knew there wasn’t enough pages left to make it happen. i saw my future, my brother leaving the home that destroyed and traumatized him while i stayed out of pity trying to hold the peace. i saw myself in zam the most. the peacekeeper, the daughter who took everything and never fought back, because fighting never did any good (she was always right, something my sibling also refused to accept and challenged every time, the one who escaped but felt guilty leaving them behind. and i saw cheta in my brother. while my mother never left any physical wounds, the emotional scars would be with him forever. while my mother paraded me around, she only had negative things to say about him. it hurt me because i was once in his shoes but i let her insults roll off my back, i refused to cry. my brother wore his emotions on his sleeves. but in her own twisted way she cared about us, but she would never tell us directly. she was like a formula you had to solve, but once you got it, it made solving equations a little easier, but still nobody liked math. cheta’s taunting and desperation to leave no matter the costs reflected my brothers desires and my fears of him going down the wrong path like her just to escape. while my brother and i have a better relationship than the sisters i know how he feels about me and i can only hope that he knows that i care about him deeply and that i will always support him. to anyone who related with cheta or zam, know that you are not alone and that your worth is not measured by what your parents think of you. pave your own way but just know that it’s okay to concede every now and then, you can’t win every battle.
August 27, 2022
Full review at: https://readingourshelves.wordpress.c...
We dive right into this book with Zam walking home from school – and in short order we meet her whole family, learn about the family dynamics, and learn about some of their local customs. Zam and Cheta live with their parents in a small town in modern day Nigeria.
Zam gets out of her anger-filled home by moving in with her rich aunt and uncle. She gets this proposal because of how well she’s doing at school, and Cheta immediately resents that she was never offered this deal.
Their uncle is super rich (in the oil business), and life at his house takes some time to adjust to. There are two other teenage girls in the house – Kaira, Zam’s cousin, and Ginika, a family friend who often stays with them while her parents are traveling abroad. Kaira is initially standoffish, but Ginika is sociable. They both harbor anger at their mothers, and the girls all eventually bond over this common problem.
Cheta comes to visit for one week. She has recently graduated from high school, and comes with the idea that she will ingratiate herself to their aunt and get a job with her. It doesn’t work. She was already so set on leaving home, though, that she does it anyway, without a real plan.
After an incident leaves Zam’s aunt and uncle feeling shaken, they decide to move – with all three girls – to London. Kaira is finally able to start breaking down the wall that had grown up between her and her mom, before the girls leave for boarding school. Another family member who is helping them there also sheds some light on Zam and Cheta’s family, and how the two girls actually got along better when they were younger. Zam feels compelled to reach out, but gets no answer.
On a trip home for Christmas, Zam sees her family again, after months of being away. Cheta also rolls back into town from Benin, where she’s been keeping her distance. Their mother treats Cheta like she is basically disowned already, but Zam still wants to try to help her sister. There is one startling revelation near the end of the book, and Zam has to make a drastic decision. Finally, both girls head back out into their separate worlds.
I don’t want to reveal too much about the ending, but I will say that I’ll be thinking about it for quite some time!
We dive right into this book with Zam walking home from school – and in short order we meet her whole family, learn about the family dynamics, and learn about some of their local customs. Zam and Cheta live with their parents in a small town in modern day Nigeria.
Zam gets out of her anger-filled home by moving in with her rich aunt and uncle. She gets this proposal because of how well she’s doing at school, and Cheta immediately resents that she was never offered this deal.
Their uncle is super rich (in the oil business), and life at his house takes some time to adjust to. There are two other teenage girls in the house – Kaira, Zam’s cousin, and Ginika, a family friend who often stays with them while her parents are traveling abroad. Kaira is initially standoffish, but Ginika is sociable. They both harbor anger at their mothers, and the girls all eventually bond over this common problem.
Cheta comes to visit for one week. She has recently graduated from high school, and comes with the idea that she will ingratiate herself to their aunt and get a job with her. It doesn’t work. She was already so set on leaving home, though, that she does it anyway, without a real plan.
After an incident leaves Zam’s aunt and uncle feeling shaken, they decide to move – with all three girls – to London. Kaira is finally able to start breaking down the wall that had grown up between her and her mom, before the girls leave for boarding school. Another family member who is helping them there also sheds some light on Zam and Cheta’s family, and how the two girls actually got along better when they were younger. Zam feels compelled to reach out, but gets no answer.
On a trip home for Christmas, Zam sees her family again, after months of being away. Cheta also rolls back into town from Benin, where she’s been keeping her distance. Their mother treats Cheta like she is basically disowned already, but Zam still wants to try to help her sister. There is one startling revelation near the end of the book, and Zam has to make a drastic decision. Finally, both girls head back out into their separate worlds.
I don’t want to reveal too much about the ending, but I will say that I’ll be thinking about it for quite some time!
October 11, 2022
A poignant story of two sisters desperate to escape a toxic home.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC on NetGalley.
This review is abridged. The full review can be found here, on my Tumblr.
I thought, based on the description, that I'd see these sisters into their adult lives. It's surprising that only a few months pass in the book, and yet SO MUCH has happened from the start.
Let me also state now that there are several content warnings for this book: verbal & physical abuse (in fact, the book opens with a scene where a father is beating his daughter), child molestation & pedophilia (and the school/church turning a blind eye), drug use/addiction & sales, and sugar dating. And that's in addition to the less prominent (though prevalent) themes of poverty, colorism, and the ignoring of mental health issues throughout.
I liked that this story is written from both Cheta and Zam's perspectives. This is a case where it's extremely necessary because we as the reader become privy to things that the other sister is not. For example, Zam doesn't understand why Cheta dislikes her but we can clearly see and understand Cheta's resentment for Zam.
On another note, I was surprised to discover (as I'm sure Zam was) that though luxurious in comparison to her home, life for Zam in her uncle's house isn't care-free. It's definitely an upgrade but still a very different way of life, and her tumultuous relationship with her cousin didn't help. However, it's hard to feel bad for her when you consider Cheta. I can tell that Onoseta meant for it to be difficult to choose a side, but I couldn't help seeing Cheta as the underdog in this story.
Without spoiling it, I think if you're expecting this book to end with Cheta and Zam hugging it out and everything being suddenly okay via unspoken apologies and an erasure of the past, you're going to be disappointed.
There's so much in this book to be discussed and dissected, and to me, that makes it a great story. (Shout out to this being Onoseta's debut novel!) However, there were some aspects of Cheta and Zam's individual and join stories that I wish had been explored in a little more depth. But overall this was a great debut and I look forward to reading more from Rimma Onoseta.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC on NetGalley.
This review is abridged. The full review can be found here, on my Tumblr.
I thought, based on the description, that I'd see these sisters into their adult lives. It's surprising that only a few months pass in the book, and yet SO MUCH has happened from the start.
Let me also state now that there are several content warnings for this book: verbal & physical abuse (in fact, the book opens with a scene where a father is beating his daughter), child molestation & pedophilia (and the school/church turning a blind eye), drug use/addiction & sales, and sugar dating. And that's in addition to the less prominent (though prevalent) themes of poverty, colorism, and the ignoring of mental health issues throughout.
I liked that this story is written from both Cheta and Zam's perspectives. This is a case where it's extremely necessary because we as the reader become privy to things that the other sister is not. For example, Zam doesn't understand why Cheta dislikes her but we can clearly see and understand Cheta's resentment for Zam.
On another note, I was surprised to discover (as I'm sure Zam was) that though luxurious in comparison to her home, life for Zam in her uncle's house isn't care-free. It's definitely an upgrade but still a very different way of life, and her tumultuous relationship with her cousin didn't help. However, it's hard to feel bad for her when you consider Cheta. I can tell that Onoseta meant for it to be difficult to choose a side, but I couldn't help seeing Cheta as the underdog in this story.
Without spoiling it, I think if you're expecting this book to end with Cheta and Zam hugging it out and everything being suddenly okay via unspoken apologies and an erasure of the past, you're going to be disappointed.
There's so much in this book to be discussed and dissected, and to me, that makes it a great story. (Shout out to this being Onoseta's debut novel!) However, there were some aspects of Cheta and Zam's individual and join stories that I wish had been explored in a little more depth. But overall this was a great debut and I look forward to reading more from Rimma Onoseta.
April 29, 2023
I knew I'd like this book just reading the dedication alone. As I was going through it, I was thinking I was going to give this a four, but then I got to the ending and it wrapped up so many plot points I'd originally thought thought were really random and had come out of nowhere that I was like, okay, this is really solid actually. And also a first novel.
And, even better, it didn't really have much by way of a love story in it, which I always like to see in books. That's what I think I liked most about it, it was mostly romance-free, even though Zam had a crush for a good chunk of it. If you could count that as romance, it definitely read nothing like a lot of the romance I run into in YA, which I was very thankful for. It was more like a condiment used lightly than the literary equivalent of someone buying a hot dog and then sticking it in a cup full of ketchup and drinking the ketchup and then begrudgingly eating the hot dog at the end, which is what a lot of YA feels like when it comes to romance.
I did like reading Cheta's POV more than Zam's. Cheta's sections tended to be MUCH shorter than Zam's. There was a reason for that, but I definitely related to Cheta more and wanted to hear more from her. Usually, I'm not into multi-POV, and find it to be a really boring trend that's all but turned into a requirement for YA, but it feels like if the author had to pick just one sister to write from, she'd have gone with Zam, and I definitely think swapping off with Cheta every other chapter helped with the pacing. If there were a sequel, Cheta's the one I'd want to read about, anyway, but it doesn't really demand a series either. I kind of like it as a standalone novel. The industry doesn't have enough of those, and the longer a series goes on, the more likely it is to turn into a giant romance-fest.
I am curious about how these characters end up in ten years, though, and what their recoveries and their lives wind up looking like, because I'm definitely rooting for Cheta out there.
And, even better, it didn't really have much by way of a love story in it, which I always like to see in books. That's what I think I liked most about it, it was mostly romance-free, even though Zam had a crush for a good chunk of it. If you could count that as romance, it definitely read nothing like a lot of the romance I run into in YA, which I was very thankful for. It was more like a condiment used lightly than the literary equivalent of someone buying a hot dog and then sticking it in a cup full of ketchup and drinking the ketchup and then begrudgingly eating the hot dog at the end, which is what a lot of YA feels like when it comes to romance.
I did like reading Cheta's POV more than Zam's. Cheta's sections tended to be MUCH shorter than Zam's. There was a reason for that, but I definitely related to Cheta more and wanted to hear more from her. Usually, I'm not into multi-POV, and find it to be a really boring trend that's all but turned into a requirement for YA, but it feels like if the author had to pick just one sister to write from, she'd have gone with Zam, and I definitely think swapping off with Cheta every other chapter helped with the pacing. If there were a sequel, Cheta's the one I'd want to read about, anyway, but it doesn't really demand a series either. I kind of like it as a standalone novel. The industry doesn't have enough of those, and the longer a series goes on, the more likely it is to turn into a giant romance-fest.
I am curious about how these characters end up in ten years, though, and what their recoveries and their lives wind up looking like, because I'm definitely rooting for Cheta out there.
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