She harbors anger about her generation and the youth in general being the ones who primarily fight back. Throughout much of the book, she holds a “well, what’s the point” view, weighed down by the heaviness of Lucille’s troubles.

There’s much to admire about Bitter, but I was especially struck by her attitude towards everything happening in Lucille. It’s art that allows all her rage, sadness, and frustrations to literally come to life – for better or for worse. It also causes isolation, and Bitter’s subsequent moments of loneliness seep through.

It’s a sanctuary when she needs an escape. Readers gain more understanding about how Bitter’s art affects her. While Emezi doesn’t focus too heavily on the early years of Bitter’s childhood, they still provide a succinct picture of Bitter’s early art. I loved being able to gain more background about her gift. First, Bitter’s art illustrates her reluctance – and her power.

(Aloe is a personal favorite.)īitter is a wonderful character, and Emezi and readers never lost sight of her. Emezi utilizes the friends who populate Bitter’s life to solidify that feeling. Despite the heaviness of Lucille, readers feel, on some level, the welcoming nature of Eucalyptus. Miss Virtue ensures her students are protected and cared for. Regardless, Eucalyptus provides a haven for kids who need it the most. Miss Virtue, the woman who runs the school, provides her own air of alluring mystery. No one knows who built it or who funds it. I was intrigued about the school’s existence, as virtually everything about it is unknown. They waste no time establishing major facets of the story, particularly Eucalyptus. Soon, Bitter finds herself wondering what her place is in the revolution.Įmezi introduces much to discover with this book. Her friends, though, want to fight for a better world. Bitter wants nothing more than to remain inside Eucalyptus. But Eucalyptus rests in the center of chaotic streets, where citizens protest the injustices gripping Lucille. It’s a safe harbor where she can focus on her art.

After growing up in foster care, Bitter is chosen to attend a special school called Eucalyptus. This prequel/companion follows its title character, Bitter. However, this Lucille is quite more incendiary. In it, Emezi brings readers back to the city of Lucille, first introduced in Bitter’s companion novel, Pet. Bitter – the first of three upcoming 2022 books from Akwaeke Emezi – is right around the corner.

Akwaeke emezi bitter