ZAKIYA'S ENDURING WOUNDS

The 11th installment in the Roosevelt High School series delves into grief and self-harm.

Black sophomore Zakiya Cameron has it all—a spot on the volleyball team, solid best friends, Peyton and Dalana, and a loving (though sometimes annoying) family. Her Catholic family struggles financially, but her parents are saving to buy their own house. Zakiya adores her father the most, relishing in his supportive presence, but when he dies one day from a sudden heart attack, Zakiya collapses in on herself. Consumed by grief, Zakiya, who is normally an attentive student, withdraws in her classes. She also lashes out at her friends, who no longer understand her volatile moods, quits attending volleyball practice, and becomes frustrated with her mom and brothers. The only thing that brings solace is the act of cutting herself. Worried about his sister, Zakiya’s older brother reaches out to Dr. Martínez, a counselor who is struggling with grief of her own. Perhaps she might be able to get through to Zakiya and help her ease her suffering in a healthier way. The novel is commendable for its diverse cast and explicit approach to consequential, relatable issues. Unfortunately, the teens’ dialogue makes them feel younger than their intended ages, and some of the prose could be more polished.

An earnest novel for reluctant readers about serious issues.