Absolutely beautiful! This book wasn’t just a love story—it was a celebration of self-love, identity, and finding your voice. I couldn’t help but adore Nala. Her journey felt so real and relatable, especially as she navigated her insecurities and learned to love herself for who she truly is, not who she thought she needed to be to fit in or impress others.  

Renée Watson has such a gift for creating characters that feel like people you know. Nala’s relationship with her family, her friendships, and her crush on Tye were all so authentic. The layers of community activism and self-discovery added so much depth to the story without ever feeling heavy-handed.  

I loved the message of learning to accept yourself first before seeking validation from others. Nala’s story is a reminder that love—whether romantic or platonic—starts with how we treat and see ourselves. By the end, I felt so inspired and uplifted.  

This book was empowering, joyful, and full of heart.