You’re in for the hottest and angriest day of your life.
Spoiler alert!
Quick maturity check on the topics included in the book: rape, pedophilia, misogyny, sexual harassment, racism, and discrimination.
Don’t read the book if these themes are sensitive to you and remember always call for help if your facing any of these problems.
To summarize, the story is about two girls living in completely different worlds. Dani De La Cruz is the poor, struggling Southeast Asian with a mom that can barely support the two of them. Claire Wang is your stereotypical rich girl who’s sent off the America for education. During her school term, Claire stays with Dani, who is acting as the host family for Claire. What could possibly go wrong?
Apart from the fact that Dani gets sexually assaulted by her very own debate coach, Mr. Connelly, and Claire gets raped by what she thought was the perfect boyfriend, Jay (minus the playboy and volatile personality). In between, Dani and Claire struggle to relate and bond with each other, despite living next to each other – literally, not realizing they’re actually pretty similar.
The book highlights the clear difference and livelihoods of the rich and the poor. Just like how Jay Li can get out of trouble for freaking raping someone, just because his dad donates to the school he goes to – WTF? Mrs. Mandalay you messed up big time on this one. Not only does the headmistress of the school accept bribes, she’s willing to do anything to protect the school image, even if it means at the expense of her student’s suffering. Dani, we’re all supporting you.
I completely admire the book for bringing out problems other authors might not have the guts to write about. Sensitive topics such as rape and sexual misconduct is usually highly scrutinized.
Unlike my usual fashion, I don’t put critiques first. Truth to be told, I don’t know if there’s anything wrong with this book. Highly recommended and a definite read for those that are a little bit older!