Ribay, Randy. Everything We Never Had. Kokila, 08/2024. 264[+8]pp. Fiction. Trade $18.99. 978-0-5934-6141-9. GRADES 9–12. OUTSTANDING.
In a character-driven family story, Bay Area author Ribay portrays four generations of Filipino American men during formative moments in their teen years. The carefully crafted narrative alternates perspectives between four characters, beginning in 1929, 2019, 1983, and 1965. Told from limited third-person viewpoints, the book portrays the differing (and sometimes clashing) beliefs and motivations of nuanced characters and shows complex situations from multiple perspectives. The sweeping, historic scope depicts the Watsonville riots, the Delano grape strike, the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and other momentous events. Credible dialogue and vivid language (a “thousand buzzing worries” plague Enzo like “murder hornets”) give voice to experiences underrepresented in teen literature. Back matter includes an author’s note and recommended resources. Includes California-specific content.
Joy Shioshita—Independent