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336
Novel • Fiction
Detroit, Michigan • 2010s
2017
YA
14-18 years
American Street follows Fabiola, a teenage Haitian immigrant, who moves to Detroit to live with her cousins after her mother is detained by immigration authorities. Fabiola struggles to adjust to American culture, forms close bonds with her family, and falls in love, only to face difficult choices and harsh realities as she tries to secure her mother’s release. The book deals with issues including detention, drug-related violence, and the death of a young person.
Challenging
Emotional
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Inspirational
22,762 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ibi Zoboi's American Street is lauded for its rich, evocative storytelling and authentic portrayal of a Haitian immigrant's experience in Detroit. Reviewers praise its heartfelt exploration of identity and resilience but note occasional pacing issues and predictability. Overall, it's heralded as a poignant, thought-provoking debut that resonates deeply with readers.
Readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories with rich cultural contexts and complex family dynamics, similar to those in The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi, will be captivated by Ibi Zoboi's American Street. This novel appeals to fans of immigrant narratives, social justice themes, and diverse voices.
22,762 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Manman (Valerie)
Fabiola’s mother who is detained by immigration authorities, which sets off the series of events explored in the story.
Matant Jo (Marjorie)
Fabiola's tough and resourceful aunt, who supports her family through her work in the illicit loan business.
Pri (Princess)
One of Fabiola’s cousins and part of the Three Bees, known for her tomboyish style and fierce protectiveness of her sister Donna.
Donna (Primadonna)
Fabiola’s feminine cousin, part of the Three Bees, who has a tumultuous relationship with her boyfriend Dray.
Chantal
The eldest of Fabiola’s cousins, known for her intelligence and ambition, balancing her academic pursuits with a strong sense of family loyalty.
Dray (Drayton)
Donna’s boyfriend involved in drug dealing, whose actions significantly affect the lives of many characters.
Kasim
Dray’s best friend who falls in love with Fabiola and plays a key role in her adaptation to Detroit.
Q
A club owner involved in illegal dealings, whose actions indirectly impact the central characters’ lives.
Papa Legba/Bad Leg
An enigmatic figure who sits near Matant Jo’s house and serves as a spiritual guide to Fabiola in her journey.
Imani
One of Fabiola’s few friends at school who helps her with academic work and navigates her relationship with Fabiola's cousins.
Detective Stevens
The detective investigating a drug-related death who offers Fabiola a deal involving her mother's release.
336
Novel • Fiction
Detroit, Michigan • 2010s
2017
YA
14-18 years
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