I have just finished reading Night Crawling, the debut novel by young writer Leila Mottley. It tells the story of 17 year old Kiara Johnson’s hard, harsh, harrowing life in Oakland, California. It details her struggle to survive, struggle to support others around her and struggle for justice. It is not an easy read, but when I book has me picking it up with even just 10 minutes to spare, I know I am hooked. Whilst Kiara is a fictional character, the story is is based on real life events in Oakland which makes it even more poignant.
The writing, the story, Kiara and those around her will stay with me for a long time, despite the ending of the book. I was particularly drawn to 9 year old Trevor, the son of an absent friend of Kiara’s. There are dark themes of corruption, manipulation and exploitation but it is a compelling and important read that I would highly recommend.
The writing, the story, Kiara and those around her will stay with me for a long time, despite the ending of the book. I was particularly drawn to 9 year old Trevor, the son of an absent friend of Kiara’s. There are dark themes of corruption, manipulation and exploitation but it is a compelling and important read that I would highly recommend.