Review: This Is My Truth by Yasmin Rahman

TW: Domestic abuse

Everyone in Amani’s life thinks that her family is perfect, but they don’t know that she has been keeping a secret about her father for years. Even her best friend Huda doesn’t know about the “bad nights” when her father’s temper rages and Amani has to comfort and look after her younger brother. But the confident and independent Huda has secrets too — her loving foster parents are expecting a baby and she’s worried that they will forget about her. Both friends keep their worries hidden until a prank blog starts revealing people’s secrets at school. This Is My Truth is a heartwarming and inspiring story about the power of using your voice.

Our protagonist, Amani, may seem quiet and shy but she is also intelligent and brave. Amani and Huda’s friendship is one of the best aspects of the book. Their dynamic is written so realistically — they fight and have their differences, but ultimately, they wish the best for each other and, as friends, they lift each other up and help each other through their struggles. Both characters are wise beyond their years and it was a pleasure to read their story.

This book deals with the difficult subject of domestic abuse which could be hard to read at times. However, the author has clearly taken a lot of time and care in order to depict this in a realistic way. The story is also full of hope, and the compassion of others is a big feature.

At times funny and always filled with drama, This Is My Truth packs a lot into a short book. If you think you will enjoy a story about friendship, secrets, finishing school and starting a new life, and if you enjoy good twists, then you’ll love this book!

Joyce Dignam