Review of Kalayla

[Ella Oyieko]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Kalayla" by Jeannie Nicholas.]

---

4 out of 4 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Kalayla is a fictional story on family, love, pain, and loss by Jeannie Nicholas.

The story revolves around Kalayla. She is a stubborn, determined, and resourceful girl. Maureen, her mother, and Lena raise her after the death of her father. The storm comes in raising her after she discovers that her mother has been lying about their family dying in an explosion. But as the author quotes,' Rome wasn't built in a day.'There is always a good ending.

What stood out for me is the cover page. It has three people who represent, Kalayla, Lena, and Maureen. Lena and Maureen work hand in hand to raise Kalayla, despite her stubborn nature. Apart from that, Maureen, Kalayla, and Maureen are the voices in the story. They are the narrators in the book.

The writing style of the author was understandable and admirable. Having the three characters as the voices in the story was unique and intriguing. The language used was easy to comprehend. The use of capital letters in some lines to stress something also stood out. E.g.But then I knew black was the ONLY color she ever wore. He also employed the shortening of words like 'cause which was interesting for me.

The characters were brought out humorously. Humor was evident in almost all the conversations of the characters. This was mostly between Kalayla and Lena. Nicholas created a clear pictorial image of the characters. Kalayla was resourceful by, looking for a job to pay for her dancing classes.

The plot of the book was enjoyable. It was unpredictable such that, it gave me the urge to flip the pages for more. It grabbed my emotions. When Maureen finally reunited with the father, it got me feeling the joy and excitement of meeting a long-departed loved one.

What I loved most about the book was the impact instilled in the readers. The impact on family and parenting. The family of Lena and Maureen had a lot to pass to the readers like the impact of racism, the choice of marriage partners, and parenting. I found this very helpful.

I did not come across any errors. Also, there is no part that I disliked in this book.

I, therefore, rate Kalayla by Jeanne Nicholas 4 out of 4 stars. So intriguing, educative, and informative. There is no permanent condition. It does not take a day to change a person or situation. I recommend this book to parents, young adults, and teens.

******
Kalayla
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon