First, screamingly funny. The references to early 2000s pop culture are hilarious, and the teenage antics of characters trying so desperately to negotiate their insular world give this piece a manic, propulsive energy. However, at its core it treats issues of identity and everyday racism in a serious way. None of the characters come across as irredeemable bigots, but all of them unleash microaggressions on the protagonist. Casual racism from one’s peer group is a part of the lived experience of many BIPOC teenagers, and Haddad is true and honest about the complexities involved. A timely work.
First, screamingly funny. The references to early 2000s pop culture are hilarious, and the teenage antics of characters trying so desperately to negotiate their insular world give this piece a manic, propulsive energy. However, at its core it treats issues of identity and everyday racism in a serious way. None of the characters come across as irredeemable bigots, but all of them unleash microaggressions on the protagonist. Casual racism from one’s peer group is a part of the lived experience of many BIPOC teenagers, and Haddad is true and honest about the complexities involved. A timely work.
