Nightcrawling

Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley is a poignant exploration of survival and resilience set against the backdrop of Oakland's streets. The story follows seventeen-year-old Kiara, who juggles the responsibilities of caring for her younger brother, Trevor, while their mother is in a halfway house. As Kiara navigates the complexities of adolescence, she is forced to confront the harsh realities of life, including financial struggles and the ever-present dangers that lurk in the dark.

The Plot

Kiara's daily existence is a delicate balance between protecting her brother and finding ways to make ends meet. The novel intricately weaves together themes of family loyalty, the quest for identity, and the impact of socio-economic challenges on young lives. As Kiara delves deeper into the night, she encounters a world filled with both peril and unexpected camaraderie. The narrative is rich with emotional depth, capturing the essence of a young girl's fight against the odds.

Themes

• Resilience: Kiara's journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
• Family Bonds: The relationship between Kiara and Trevor highlights the importance of familial love.
• Survival: The novel presents a raw depiction of the lengths one goes to protect those they love.

“In the shadows of the night, Kiara learns that hope can be found even in the darkest of places.”

Readers who appreciated Mottley's evocative storytelling in her earlier works or enjoyed similar narratives exploring the struggles of youth, such as The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas, will find Nightcrawling to be a compelling and thought-provoking read.