Review Detail

This contemporary YA novel follows the main character, Leena, as she discovers hidden family history and the changes it brings to her life. The story discusses many themes but focuses mainly on family, identity, and faith and how complex it can be. Leena has to decide on how to move forward with her newly acquainted family and how it may change the close relationship with her mom. Can she handle the dynamics of it all or will it be too much?

This was an engrossing novel from beginning to end and I appreciated how VanBrakle
Handles very real issues in a very delicate way. Families can be complicated and in this novel Leena’s journey helps readers to see that relationships are constant work in progress. She feels trapped between the two sides as she understands her mom’s as well as her grandfather's and aunt’s perspectives as well. It’s not about being right per say but opening the lines for communication to see if they can try to remedy the family rift.

The characters in My Perfect Family are well-written and feel multi-layered. I enjoyed reading the story from Leena’s perspective and how she grows over the course of the story. She is at an age where there are so many changes happening and tries to carve out her path without being too heavily influenced by both sides of her family. The novel also explores what it’s like to be a Black Muslim in America and does a good job of educating the audience and giving personal insight as Leena is introduced to Islam.

It's a story that is warm, full of heart, and thoughtful. VanBrakle has such a way with words and crafting a story full of rich characters and culture. I would recommend this story for readers who enjoy stories about families as well as self-discovery narratives.