A review by theliteraryteapot
Saving Sunshine by Saadia Faruqi

hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Thank you First Second and NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Saving Sunshine
is a middle grade graphic novel exploring the relationship of two twin siblings constantly fighting in an American Muslim family.
My reading experience was really great. I don't read many graphic books and I don't know why because it's nice. The pace was good, it read quickly and the illustrations are so gorgeous. I absolutely love this style and the colour scheme!

The story offers Muslim representation (including a hijabi main character) and a judgement-free representation of teenagers being teenagers.
 Are the kids insufferable the more they fight and the more they keep being negative about each other's hobby? Yes, definitely. Well, they're kids, they have yet to talk about what drew them away from one another, they have to deal with micro-aggressions and islamophobia on a daily basis. They have to learn to communicate, to support each other. They have to learn to respect their hobbies without constantly criticising. So they're a bit immature and it's normal. They'll come to understand and learn.

The parents are naturally the figures with wisdom. It was hinted that the kids didn't spend that much time with their mother due to her working a lot as a doctor and I wish the authors would've explored that and its impact on the family a bit more.
I found the twins' hobbies really cool! Space, as I used to (still do though) be obsessed with it; and animal rights and care. That led the book to also give a slightly subtle criticism of human activities and how it is ha mful for animals and their environment. Saving an animal as well as being forced to spend time together is ultimately what draws the teens to see things from the other's point of view.

I think this is a really nice middle grade book in which Muslim kids can see their representation, the importance of communicating and being respectful, and sibling dynamics. I think I would love to buy a physical copy.

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