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47 pages 1 hour read

When the Moon Was Ours

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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Anna-Marie McLemore

When the Moon Was Ours

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

273

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Small Town • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2016

Publisher

Thomas Dunne Books

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

920L

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Super Short Summary

When the Moon Was Ours by Anna-Marie McLemore follows two teenagers, Miel, who grows roses from her wrist, and Sam, who navigates his transgender identity, as they face challenges from the mythical Bonner sisters who covet Miel's roses. With themes of transformation, family versus independence, and self-acceptance, the novel explores their journey towards love and personal truth. The narrative includes depictions of self-harm, transphobia and misgendering, and child abuse.

Mysterious

Fantastical

Emotional

Romantic

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.2

11,353 ratings

69%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

When the Moon Was Ours by Anna-Marie McLemore captivates with its lyrical prose and rich symbolism, shining in its portrayal of identity and love. Critics praise its magical realism and character depth. However, some find its pacing slow and its plot occasionally convoluted. Overall, it’s an enchanting read with minor narrative flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read When the Moon Was Ours?

Readers who enjoy lyrical prose, magical realism, and themes of identity and transformation will be captivated by Anna-Marie McLemore's When the Moon Was Ours. Fans of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez will find this novel equally enchanting.

4.2

11,353 ratings

69%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Miel

The Latin protagonist of the story, whose name means “honey” in Spanish, contains magical realism in the form of roses that grow from her wrist, and has a deep connection with her best friend Sam as she navigates personal challenges.

A Pakistani transgender boy dealing with identity issues in a small, close-minded town, who forms a tight bond with Miel while exploring his connection to his family heritage and his own Gender Identity.

Miel’s guardian and a local healer who specializes in curing lovesickness, known for her transformative background and supportive role in the lives of Miel, Sam, and their community.

A group of four powerful sisters—Chloe, Lian, Ivy, and Peyton—who share a supernatural bond, impacting the narrative with their collective strength and familial loyalty until personal discoveries alter their dynamic.

Book Details
Pages

273

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Small Town • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2016

Publisher

Thomas Dunne Books

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

920L

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