A review by xangemtheelibrarian
All the Fighting Parts by Hannah V. Sawyerr

challenging emotional inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I never wanted to be the back that carries a movement.
Never wanted to be the megaphone
that amplifies the survivor's song.

All I wanted was a listening ear,
willing to understand my story for what it is,
and not what people think it should be.

Someone willing to hear my story,
and love me,

Anyway.
- Mina, pg. 272

This is a work of art. A powerful testimony to the internalized guilt and fear victims of sexual assault and rape face when they decide to speak up against their abusers. Amina is a character that is so easy to sympathize with. Her experience feels so real, and for good reason. The author notes in the back that she wrote this novel in verse as "first and foremost a hug to survivors like my younger self." 

There aren't many stories in this world nowadays that move me like this one has. I think the last (currently published 😉) book that made me cry like this was The Little Snake by A.L. Kennedy. I will be purchasing a personal copy because I'm finding I dont want to return this one to the library. I want to highlight all my favorite parts. I want to keep this for anyone else who might need it someday. 

This story is a terrible tragedy, but it is so full of hope, courage, and strength. Amina is an overcomer. 🦋
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