Bitter by Akwaeke Emezi
Published by Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers on February 15, 2022
ISBN: 0593309030
Pages: 272
Genres: Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
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Called a companion novel to Emezi’s debut YA novel Pet, this book is actually a prequel but stands on its own as a stunning novel about the power of art and the difficulty in drawing a line between art and reality, revenge and justice, and safety and freedom.

The book follows Bitter, a teen who has been knocked around by the foster system and who has found a haven in the art-focused boarding school Eucalyptus.  Bitter is afraid to venture out of the school and mingle with the young activists fighting for a better world, often at the expense of their physical safety. When an event causes harm to people Bitter cares about, she concentrates all of her rage and despair into her canvas, accidentally unleashing a vengeful angel who will stop at nothing to expose and punish those leaders who would sacrifice young lives to retain their own power.

The book is masterfully crafted and offers thought-provoking scenarios that force the reader to question their own views on justice and freedom and the power of voice. Hand to readers who question the power of activism and who see art as a vehicle for change.

Reviewed by Jill O’Connor, Merrill Memorial Library, Yarmouth