This was an incredibly moving story of a family's circumstances in the slums of a village in Ghana, which change when the eldest daughter has the opportunity to work as a live-in maid for a wealthy relative. The author gives voice to cultural traditions and the culture shock that occurs when there are different values, communication styles, and even a discrepancy in how one is treated depending on social class.

Things come to a head when Amerley is sexually assaulted, and there is an attempt to hide the crime. The author does not shy away from the grim realities of how her rape is viewed by various people and the cruel things that are done to her. The story ends on a hopeful note, with an emphasis to speak out and see justice carried through.

I really enjoyed reading this book. The book’s message is vital for everyone, especially girls and women.

Amerley grew up in poverty. He father was a deadbeat who abandoned his family. Her mother, was depressed and stopped working. This left teenaged Amerley to care for her mother, her three younger sisters, and herself. So, when she was presented with an opportunity to work for a rich relative, she really had no choice.

Although I liked the book, I feel like the main point was glossed over. I'm glad that the author didn't spend too much time on the rape scene, we didn't need any gory details. I think the aftermath of Amerley’s rape could've used some extra attention. This was the most part of the book, at least it should have been.

There were only a few chapters between the rape and the end of the book. We never get to see Amerley cope with what happened and come to terms with it. Her case had a huge impact on the community but we didn'they to experience any of it. I think the book would've been more powerful if this part had been fleshed out more.

Full review to come on my blog.

I received this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

This was a good read. There were some parts that were hard to read, especially because you know women around the world have had similar experiences. Overall a powerful.story that should be read by all.

Even When Your Voice Shakes
by Ruby Yayra Goka
Pub Date 15 Feb 2022 | Archive Date 31 Jan 2022
W. W. Norton & Company, Norton Young Readers
OwnVoices | Teens & YA


I am reviewing a copy Of Even When Your Voice Shakes through W.W Norton & Company, Norton Young Readers and Netgalley:


After Amerley is offered a job working for one of her mother’s old school friends, she knows she has to accept. Her wages will be used to help feed her family as well as help her sisters at stay in school, and ensure that her mother won’t have to worry about them. Amerley’s move to Accra isn’t easy, but she soon settles into her new life away from her small village—until she is raped by the son of her employer. Between keeping quiet to keep her job and speaking up for herself and for justice, Amerley must decide how to live her truth, and the impact of her choice will be felt through her entire community.






Even When Your Voice Shakes exposes the damage wrought by institutionalized misogyny and poverty and reveals how even those who are most disadvantaged are never without their own power.





I give Even When Your Voice Shakes five out of five stars!

Even When Your Voice Shakes is a gorgeous young adult novel with something older readers can take away, too. Ruby Yayra Goka writes in a literary way that explores identity, expands characters, and invites us to consider. A story well worth sharing in a classroom or school library.