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75 pages 2 hours read

Pet

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Akwaeke Emezi

Pet

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Lucille • Near Future

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

In a utopian future where monsters—manifestations of systemic injustices—are believed eradicated, 15-year-old Black transgender girl Jam discovers a monstrous presence in her best friend's home when a creature named Pet emerges from her mother’s painting. Together, they confront hidden evils, challenging the community’s notion that they live in a world free from monsters. Depictions of child sexual and physical abuse.

Mysterious

Dark

Emotional

Suspenseful

Fantastical

Reviews & Readership

4.4

32,923 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Akwaeke Emezi's Pet garners praise for its imaginative world-building and impactful themes of justice and identity. The novel's unique narrative voice and representation of marginalized characters are highly lauded. Criticism includes a somewhat straightforward plot and underdeveloped secondary characters, but overall, it's celebrated as a thought-provoking, timely read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Pet?

Pet by Akwaeke Emezi appeals to readers who appreciate young adult dystopian fiction with powerful social commentary and LGBTQ+ representation. Comparable to The Giver by Lois Lowry and The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas, it attracts those interested in challenging societal norms and exploring themes of identity and justice.

4.4

32,923 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Jam

A 15-year-old Black transgender girl who communicates mostly through sign language and is deeply connected to and protective of her family and friends. Her compassionate and resilient nature is central to her relationship with her community.

Jam’s best friend, a gentle and moral African American boy, who loves his family and is passionate about fighting as an expression of human potential and beauty. He represents hope and change within his community.

A creature brought to life by Jam’s mother through art, who aids Jam in confronting the hidden truths within their town. Pet is an embodiment of vigilance and remnants of past struggles.

Jam’s mother, an artist named due to the circumstances of her birth, who played a significant role in Lucille's revolution. She possesses a deep understanding of the potential presence of monsters within humanity.

Jam’s father, a paramedic characterized by his protective instincts, whose name reflects his healing nature. He strives to ensure the safety of his family, sometimes grappling with denial as a means of protection.

Initially perceived as an angel of Lucille due to his role in the revolution, Hibiscus is later revealed to have a more complicated and hidden nature. He is closely connected to Jam and her community, emphasizing the complexities beneath the surface.

The mother of Redemption and Moss, who deeply loves her children. Her relationship with her sister and her own family dynamics come under scrutiny throughout the story.

An artist and father to Redemption and Moss, whose priority becomes the protection of his children. He is part of a loving polyamorous household.

Redemption's third parent, who shares in the responsibilities of maintaining a safe and nurturing family environment. Whisper is depicted as a devoted part of Redemption and Moss's support system.

A knowledgeable and insightful librarian who uses a wheelchair, playing a critical role in providing wisdom and guidance to Jam and Redemption. He is an advocate for transparency and truth within the community.

Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Lucille • Near Future

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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