This will go down as one of my favorite books of 2025.
I love coming of age stories that aren't your normal, everyday, perfect childhood. This story has so much depth and drama..
Highly recommend

25% and DNF. While the story and characters feel cinematic and I can see it very clearly in my mind, it's just not holding my attention enough.

A group of teens stumble upon a terrible event and find themselves part of a mafia plot. As the friends try to navigate what happens next, they must decide whether they will do what’s right or bow to pressure. Ravi Gupta’s debut builds out a world so real readers may be able to follow the stench of the Fresh Kills landfill the book highlights in his book Garbage Town.

Sixteen-year-old Raj Patel and his friends call Travis, a small town on Staten Island, home, and they don’t even bat an eye that it’s also the home to Fresh Kills. The main landfill for all of New York City, Fresh Kills is omnipresent: it’s everywhere and in everything. Raj knows people who have died from cancers that some claim were caused by the enormous dump. It’s not anything anyone can prove, but there’s also not much anyone can do about it.

And Raj has bigger problems to solve anyway. His CD-burning business has been booming, but with summer vacation starting he has to find a way to offload his latest batch if he wants to bring in enough cash to support his single mom for the summer and have a little left over to spend on himself. When the main bully in his high school grabs his discs, Raj knows he’s out of luck…until the new girl, Georgia, helps him.

Georgia’s kind of cute, albeit a mystery, but Raj doesn’t overthink it. He just introduces her to the Victory Boys—Val, Deadbolt, and Cheetah—and the group decides they’re going to make the most of the last day of their freshman year of high school. None of them anticipates stumbling across a murder-in-progress in the deep of the dump. What’s worse is that the murderers are members of the local mafia family that pretty much controls life in Travis.

Raj and the other Victory Boys find themselves as targets of the mafia, and Raj does what he can to take attention away from Georgia and the guys so everyone stays alive. That just increases focus on him, and the mafia aren’t about to move that spotlight any time soon. So Raj makes the biggest compromise of all and finds himself in a different kind of trouble altogether.

All he wants is a chance to make things right with the guys and Georgia, but if he does he’ll end up making all of them targets again. Yet Raj’s conscience won’t let the matter go. When an opportunity finally comes his way, he makes the hardest decision of all.

Author Ravi Gupta writes with an ease and confidence that belies a first novel. The book’s strongest point is easily its setting and the descriptions of Fresh Kills. The novel possesses an authenticity that can only come from having grown up in a place, as Gupta has in Staten Island.

The author also captures the essence of a late 1990s summer. Readers will have no trouble feeling the summer heat and the promise that unencumbered vacation time brings, especially for teenagers. The opportunistic attitude Raj and his friends have toward their summer gives a three-dimensional texture that will certainly remind readers of their own time with friends.

At certain times, the novel’s plot feels slightly underwhelming. The setting and mood of the book overshadow the seriousness of Raj and Co.’s problems occasionally, which might make some readers have to reread pages in order to catch what happens. Despite that minor drawback, the book is most definitely an enjoyable read.

There are a few places where the book feels it could have done with more development. As much time and care as Gupta gave his location, it seems as though minor plot points were left back a few paces. The opening of the book, too, might confuse readers once they get past it, and some might wonder why Booch starts the story when the star is clearly Raj. In him, though, readers find a worthy, if somewhat reluctant, hero.

Readers wanting an unusual New York City setting for a novel definitely need to read this one. It’s also a good book to pick up for the summer.

This is a novel that captures the essence of the struggle between the dream of a better life and the harsh reality of daily hardships in a often-forgotten corner of the world. Set in a city, the book follows the lives of a community living among garbage, where every day is a battle for survival. Gupta presents a raw and powerful narrative, exploring themes of poverty, hope, corruption, and humanity, immersing the reader in a parallel universe made up of both physical and social refuse.

Gupta's writing is sharp, blending realism and symbolism, painting the faces of the protagonists with sensitivity, each one trying, in their own way, to escape misery. This is not only a social novel but also a profound reflection on the human condition: despair and hope intertwine on every page, offering an authentic glimpse into a reality that is difficult to imagine for those who don’t live it.

The voices of the characters are believable and poignant, and the author successfully conveys a sense of total immersion, allowing the reader to feel the disorientation that defines the world of "Garbage Town". It is a novel that not only entertains but also shakes the conscience, urging reflection on social inequality and the importance of a change that often feels out of reach.

Gupta demonstrates a rare ability to blend drama and hope, leaving the reader with a sense of unease but also a desire for change. A must-read for those seeking stories that go beyond the surface, exploring the complexities of marginalized lives in a humane and profoundly empathetic way.

I loved the plot and the setting for this one. I struggled a little bit with the flow of the story....I couldn't put it down then it would lag then pick up again. I still enjoyed it overall. Good coming of age story full of interesting characters.

Love this book! Garbage Town by Ravi Gupta is a wonderful coming of age story in the dark, mostly forgotten Fresh Kills landfill of Staten Island (an area I had never heard of before) A tough place to live but a tougher place to survive. You need to know when to keep your head down and when to fight until the mob gets involved. I would like to thank NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.

First book that I have read by Mr. R Gupta, and right out of the gate the story brings you in. We have a cop that is supervising the clean up of a land fill. Piece by piece they are shifting thru debris from the 911 tower tragedy. While working they end up finding a body that definitely didn't come from the towers. From here our story goes to the past and kids growing up on the streets where life, love, and tragedy fore shadow the future.
Mystery and suspense fill the pages, characters come to life and page after page the story brings you in till the final page.

Garbage Town hooks you from the beginning causing all the characters to assemble creating a time in a neighborhood that was not the most hospitable in many ways. Navigation of each group of those running the show and maintaining one's values brings drama into their lives. Ravi Gupta keeps you running for the next happening. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I absolutely loved this book! I opened it up and was so immersed in Raj and his friends that I stayed up way too late and finished it. I wish I had lingered over it, let it sink in. The story is original, with a bit of nostalgia and mingling of genres- coming of age, mystery, family, friendship, and even a nod to certain classics it seemed in areas!
The characters were wonderful- completely fleshed out. The relationship between Raj, Val, Hugo and a few others, was genuine, and the growth and realizations that they come to in dealing with the aftermath of discovering secrets and becoming mixed up with a Staten Island crime family is gripping, and at times heartbreaking, affecting . Yet Ravi Gupta weaves humor into the story which makes the characters more endearing to the reader. We see how they fight for each other and their families, and the strength they have in dealing with adult issues.
The setting was fantastic! The feeling of the 90's in Staten Island was written so well, I was shocked when I finished to find myself sitting in my living room! And the plot! Gupta incorporates a coming of age story, wrapped in a mystery, with a big dose of friendship, and a little dose of romance effortlessly. The result is a vibrant, authentic reading experience that leads me to believe this will be one of my top reads for 2025!
This review is hard to write because the plot is intricate- but not difficult to follow. And there are absolutely no holes in the story- everything comes to a satisfying conclusion. Except.... I want more! I loved these characters and want to see where they go! I will definitely read anything that Ravi Gupta writes!
Thank you NetGalley, Green Leaf Book Group and Ravi Gupta for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.

P.S.- Someone needs to make this into a series- BUT Ravi Gupta has to write it for the screen!!!!

Thank you to Netgalley and Greenleaf Book Group | Greenleaf Book Group Press for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I did enjoy this book. I would recommend this book. I enjoyed the storyline and the characters growth.

Ravi Gupta’s Garbage Town is an absolute gem—part coming-of-age story, part chaotic adventure, and entirely unputdownable. At its heart is Raj Patel, a teenager navigating life on Staten Island, a place I’ve never been but now feel strangely acquainted with thanks to Gupta’s vivid storytelling.

Raj Patel has always lived in the shadow of Fresh Kills, the largest landfill in the world, and the Staten Island crime family that profits from its dirty business. He’s managed to steer clear of their influence—until he and his friends uncover a dangerous secret buried deep in the trash. Suddenly, they’re faced with an impossible choice: keep their heads down and protect themselves or risk everything for the truth.

As Raj digs deeper (literally and figuratively), the stakes rise, and the lines between right and wrong begin to blur. Torn between his duty to his family and the fight for justice, he finds himself pulled into a world he never wanted to be part of. But once you're in, getting out might not be an option.

What Makes This Book Stand Out
-A Gripping Mystery with Heart: The novel is packed with twists and turns that kept me on my toes. Every time I thought I knew where the story was going, it took an unexpected (and thrilling) detour. But beyond the action, Garbage Town is a story with soul—it’s about friendship, family, and the struggle to do the right thing when the world is anything but fair.

-Raj Patel: A Protagonist Worth Rooting For: Raj is a fantastic lead—smart, determined, and caught between conflicting loyalties. His struggles feel real, and his character growth throughout the novel is deeply satisfying.

-A Love Letter to Staten Island: Gupta’s writing doesn’t just paint a setting; it breathes life into it. Staten Island feels like a character of its own, filled with contradictions—both vibrant and decaying, hopeful and corrupt. Even if you’ve never set foot there, you’ll walk away feeling like you have.

-A Story That Feels Fresh: Garbage Town is the perfect mix of mystery, adventure, and a deeply personal coming-of-age journey. It’s rare to find a book that defies expectations while still delivering a cohesive and compelling story, but Gupta nails it.

This is the kind of book that stays with you. It’s not just an edge-of-your-seat mystery—it’s a story about growing up, finding your voice, and learning that sometimes doing the right thing comes at a cost. The writing is sharp, the pacing is relentless, and the characters feel like old friends by the end.

Buy this book for your mystery-loving friends, the high school students in your life who are begging for something fresh, and even your literary fiction-loving neighbor. Garbage Town is unpredictable, full of heart, and absolutely worth the read.

Garbage Town is a haunting and nostalgic journey into the life of Raj, a Staten Island teen growing up in the gritty backdrop of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Living in the shadow of the infamous Fresh Kills Dump, Raj and his friends face a harsh reality filled with poverty, danger, and limited opportunities. Author Ravi Gupta masterfully captures the bleakness of this world, making it all too real for readers.
The story kicks off with a powerful reminder of 9/11 and its profound impact on New York, setting the tone for a narrative that’s equal parts raw and poignant. As we dive into Raj’s daily struggles—dodging bullies, earning money to support his mom—you can’t help but draw comparisons to the bonds and resilience of The Outsiders. But soon, Garbage Town takes an intense turn, channeling the gritty suspense of The Client and Goodfellas.
One fateful night, Raj and his friends witness something they never should have seen, forever altering the course of their lives. The story grips you from start to finish, with twists that leave you reeling. While a character’s death feels inevitable, the “who, when, and how” still delivers a shocking and unforgettable impact.

This is a standout title that deserves attention. With its themes of survival, moral dilemmas, and coming-of-age struggles, Garbage Town is an exceptional, modern alternative to classics like The Outsiders. It’s a tale that stays with you, long after the final page.
Thank you NetGalley and Ravi Gupta for the DRC

4.5 ⭐

The Plot: A group of teens trying to solve a mystery in the ‘90s? Yes, please! 🙋‍♀️ From the beginning, I knew I was going to like this book. What seemed like an ordinary day in the life of Raj and his friends turned out to be the beginning of a long, dramatic year that changed his life forever and shocked me to the point that I was stunned when I finished reading. Like was the ending even satisfying? I mean, it tied up loose ends concerning the plot and the characters, but I can’t say with certainty that it was a good ending. Gosh, I laughed and smiled at the friendship and humor shared between Raj, Val, Georgia, and their other pals as they navigated through the drama concerning Fresh Kills (fitting name, by the way, 🫣) and the mob plaguing the streets of Travis. And when the group started to confront the crime concerning that landfill, I was fearing for their lives! 😱 I really liked how Gupta didn’t leave a stone unturned or a plotline unfinished. This story is so interesting and mysterious and even beautiful because Raj had to learn what was important to him in this life: money that comes with respect or friendships that bring laughter, trust, and peace. ♥️

The Characters: The characters had to be my favorite part of the story. You can leave out Fresh Kills, the crime family, and the surprises that came along the way (and they made my jaw drop to the floor!) and I’d still be happy with a book with Raj and his friends. They grew and learned the lessons life taught them, trying to do what is right no matter the consequences or what wrong was done in the past. 🫶 Raj is business-minded and cares very much about those he holds near and dear to his heart, wanting to get out of the financial situation he and his mom are in which leads him to do things that he wouldn’t normally do. Val is the charming, handsome, and ever-loyal friend that I adored. He is the teenage equivalent of Siegfried in James Herriot’s books and I am all here for it! 🙌 Georgia is a firecracker who fights for what she believes in and slips a little something-something from your place in her pocket (she can’t help it 🤷‍♀️). There are other great characters and if you want to find out who they are, then you should definitely read this book. 😉

The Writing: Ravi Gupta. I need more books ASAP! 😂 What an incredible author! The dialogue was funny, engaging, and easy to read. The story itself wasn’t overcomplicated, boring, or slow. It flowed so well and everything was structured to perfection. 🤌

Overall Thoughts: Okay, I think I’ve said enough and I think you get the gist that I enjoyed this book so much. If Ravi Gupta writes more books, I am definitely going to be reading them! 😁

Content Warnings: murder, violence, death

I received a free digital arc from the publishers via NetGalley. All opinions and statements are my own.

#GarbageTown #NetGalley

This was a really well told story. I enjoyed the characters - large and small. Though I really loved Georgia the most - she was so quirky and unique - and was the brevity and humor the story really needed throughout. A little bit coming of age, a little bit mafia, a little bit mystery. This isn't something I would generally read but I thought it sounded interesting and I was not disappointed. I was pulled in from the first chapter.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Garbage Town by Ravi Gupta was an entertaining coming of age story.
These characters are compelling and realistic.
The writing kept me so engaged and eager to turn the pages.

Running from bullies and straight into a murder scene is not what Raj was hoping when he was trying to escape a beating. Now the mafia knows where his mother and Raj live and it’s either give up the secrets or dig his own grave in Fresh Kills.

Ravi Gupta takes us on a wild ride around Staten Island and its mini-neighborhoods while kids deal with bullies, poverty, racism, friendship, and let’s not forget murder. I will say that I am surprised at the role Raj ends up having in the crime family. On the criminal side, I kind of get it. But as to the business side of it, I really don’t. Artistic license is definitely in play here.

I guessed who would die in the story, though I did put it between two people as to me it was the most obvious. This isn’t to say that the story isn’t well written, the body is just kind of the obvious choice for the story. I was about to write that I enjoyed the friendships, but I also felt very disconnected to the end. I think that the friendships in the first part of the story were strong and real. Then everyone broke code for the second part of the story and I just didn’t get that from the bonding experiences in the first part.

Society happenings in Garbage Town are the same as everywhere as kids struggle to help their parents or parent make ends meet. When I was a kid, everyone was called a “latch-key kid” because we all took care of ourselves and had hustles to make life work. These kids are no different in the choices they are making to survive. Then add in racism from kids and adults and it just makes the struggle harder.

The action sequences were well-written and very realistic. There is nothing glorious about running for your “life” whether it be from bullies, a school teacher, or the mafia. Gupta does an excellent job on these scenes.

I see in some places it is labeled as “New Adult” but Raj and his friends (with the exception of one) are his age. He starts the book as a freshman in high school and it ends with him being a sophomore. He does have to grow up fast, but he’s still a kid.

Garbage Town is a good realistic young adult fiction book. Growing up is hard no matter what year it is.

This just seemed implausible. Teenagers getting involved and at one point working for the Staten Island mafia was a stretch for my imagination. The writing seemed immature also, like maybe the first novel for this author or something. I didnt like the characters really either they were all kind of annoying

Garbage Town by Ravi Gupta was a gene I would not of chosen but the cover caught my eye, and I am so glad it did. This was an interesting read from start to finish and it is about a boy called Raj Patel and he grew up in the shadow of Fresh Kills, which is the largest landfill the world from the 9/11 has ever seen.
At the young age of sixteen, he has seen so much is in his young life, and now he’s watched the Staten Island crime family tighten its grip on his town’s lucrative trash business, but he has to kept his distance from their dirty trade, until now.

Raj and his friends make a chilling discovery deep within the dump, now they are embarking on a search for answers. But they aren’t the only ones looking for the truth, and their pursuers will stop at nothing to guard their secrets. Faced with an impossible choice to protect themselves or expose what they’ve found.
Raj and his friends quickly realise there’s no one left to trust. The deeper they dig, the higher the stakes.
Soon, they’re in way over their heads, and the only way out might be through.

Can they do the right thing and survive?

This book is so good I ended up reading it all day till the very end, I loved the main character Raj and how he dealt with it all. Perfect.

Thank you to NetGalley and Greenleaf Book Group for the ARC.

Raj Patel is a young teen boy living in the largest landfill in the world called Fresh Kill. Post 9/11, this landfill hold many secrets, including murder. Raj and his friends will witness a horrific even that will unleash the events that unfold throughout the book. The story, themes and characters are something fresh and new in YA, but as an adult I enjoyed it tremendously. 

Garbage Town is a coming of age story in a difficult place where everyone else is just looking out for themselves no matter who gets hurt.

Thank you Netgalley and Greenleaf Book Group for this fast paced gripping story.

The premise of this book was great. It was entertaining. There were parts though that felt clunky and there was way too much exposition for me. I know this seems harsh, but often the descriptions of the characters and places would take me out of the story because it felt so forced.
I know it was a debut so I don't want to go overboard with a harsh review. Overall, the story/plot was great and the cast of characters was interesting. It kept my attention and me turning pages.