Maddie is the primary caretaker for her father, who suffers from advanced stage Parkinson's. When her mum returns from her latest trip to Ghana, Maddie leaps at the chance to get out of the family home and finally start living. A self-acknowledged late bloomer, she's ready to experience some important "firsts" She finds a flat share, says yes to after-work drinks, pushes for more recognition in her career, and throws herself into the bewildering world of internet dating. But it's not long before tragedy strikes, forcing Maddie to face the true nature of her unconventional family, and the perils—and rewards—of putting her heart on the line.
Sparkling ... George paints [an] untenable situation in bold, bright strokes, arming Maddie with a quiet power that almost (but not quite) erases your sympathy for her ... What does it say about me that I enjoyed the sad parts more than the ones that were supposed to be triumphant? This is not to say that everything works out perfectly, thank goodness. But I do think some of George’s dialogue is slightly dopey ... George layers lists, articles, emails, drafts of letters and a Reddit thread alongside Maddie’s many texts and (often hilarious) Google searches. Somehow the patchwork elements cooperate with one another ... George shows the details and scope of life with such confidence and joie de vivre, it’s easy to forget she’s a first-time novelist.
This evocative — and, at times, gloriously messy — coming-of-age story tackles enormous contemporary topics and issues, including racism, cultural barriers, mental and emotional instability, growing-up pains, and debilitating loss. Luckily, Maame’s voice — her clear, sharp-eyed, detail-focused, honest voice — provides a consistent, compelling thread throughout the narrative ... Altogether Maame — thanks to Maame — is a thought-provoking and enjoyable debut.
Incredibly insightful ... The novel straddles complex issues, yet still delivers in abundance with clever wit, humor, and heart. The story is delivered beautifully by narrator Agyepong ... The pace and flow of the story are natural and encourage the reader to keep listening. This will be a popular book club title and will foster much discussion. Many readers will be on the lookout for George’s next novel.
