Bee reviewed Best Liars in Riverview by Lin Thompson
Review of 'Best Liars in Riverview' on 'Goodreads'
5 stars
The Best Liars in Riverview is Lin Thompson's wondrous debut novel of friendship, belonging, found-family, acceptance and hope both in oneself and others.
I was so glad I was given an opportunity to review such a beautifully written book with vivid world-building, characters that the reader will undoubtedly relate to both for good and bad reasons. The Best Liars in Riverview is a tale that will stay with you, and make you smile and perhaps cry - I know certain things within the book especially in regards to Joel's life had me crying and longing to hug this poor boy who is bullied from all sides for being simply who he is, even as he works so hard to work just who he is.
Everyone in life at some point or another, and even sometimes several times during their lifetime will ask one question. 'Who am I?' and more and …
The Best Liars in Riverview is Lin Thompson's wondrous debut novel of friendship, belonging, found-family, acceptance and hope both in oneself and others.
I was so glad I was given an opportunity to review such a beautifully written book with vivid world-building, characters that the reader will undoubtedly relate to both for good and bad reasons. The Best Liars in Riverview is a tale that will stay with you, and make you smile and perhaps cry - I know certain things within the book especially in regards to Joel's life had me crying and longing to hug this poor boy who is bullied from all sides for being simply who he is, even as he works so hard to work just who he is.
Everyone in life at some point or another, and even sometimes several times during their lifetime will ask one question. 'Who am I?' and more and more, that question is being asked earlier in life and this middle-grade book explores how hard, and emotional that question can be. It can be especially hard for children such as our protagonists, Aubrey and Joel, when they're surrounded by adults who have been unable to help, guide or protect them from those who see being 'different' as something to condemn. I think how Lin Thompson writes how the two handle such issues as race, religion, sexuality and gender is incredibly well done and weaves them into the tale so that it is realistic of the issues children (and adults) face on a day to day basis.
If a child is struggling with that age old question but specifically in regards to their gender and/or sexuality and you wish to remind them that they're not alone, The Best Liars in Riverview is a book to give them.
I truly look forward to more from Lin Thompson in the future, and schools/public libraries? You need this on your shelves as diversity matters especially when children are young.