45 pages • 1 hour read
The Weight of Our Sky
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Book Brief
288
Novel • Fiction
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia • 1960s
2019
YA
14-18 years
830L
Super Short Summary
The Weight of Our Sky by Hanna Alkaf is set in Kuala Lumpur during the 1969 race riots and follows Melati, a teenager with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, as she navigates the chaos to find her mother. The novel delves into race, identity, mental health, and the importance of love and friendship amidst the violent, politically charged unrest. It includes graphic violence, depictions of mental health concerns, and discriminatory language.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Emotional
Challenging
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
5,566 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Hanna Alkaf's The Weight of Our Sky receives acclaim for its compelling portrayal of mental illness and historical events in 1969 Malaysia. Readers appreciate the emotional depth and rich cultural context. However, some critique the pacing and development of secondary characters. Overall, it delivers a powerful, empathetic narrative that resonates strongly.
Who Should Read The Weight of Our Sky?
Fans of historical fiction with a strong, young female protagonist will find much to enjoy in Hanna Alkaf's The Weight of Our Sky. Comparable to The Book Thief and Under a Painted Sky, readers drawn to emotionally gripping narratives set against tense historical backdrops will be captivated.
5,566 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Vincent
Vincent
A college-aged young man who acts as Mel's close friend and love interest, helping her navigate the riots and providing her with support and guidance.
Frankie
Frankie
An older brother of Vincent, characterized by his involvement in the riots, embodying the racial anger and tension present during the period.
Auntie Bee and Uncle Chong
Auntie Bee and Uncle Chong
Mentors who guide Mel through the tumultuous time of the riots, offering a balanced perspective on racial tensions and exemplifying understanding and forgiveness.
288
Novel • Fiction
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia • 1960s
2019
YA
14-18 years
830L
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