With the Fire on High

by Elizabeth Acevedo
With the Fire on High cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Young Adult (YA)
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Paperback • £8.99
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Technical
  • ID: 10031
  • Added: 2026-01-05
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9781471409011
  • Publisher: Bonnier Zaffre Ltd.
  • Published: 2019-09-19
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Emoni's life has been a series of tough decisions since becoming a young mother. Juggling school, caring for her daughter, and managing her grandmother's expectations, she finds solace and joy in cooking. Her magical hands in the kitchen create extraordinary dishes loved by everyone. Emoni dreams of becoming a chef but feels it's an impossible pursuit given her responsibilities. However, as she lets her passion for cooking take over, she realizes that her drive to feed others can also nourish her own dreams and soul. /n/n The novel is praised for its evocative prose and depth, offering a story that is both heartwarming and inspiring. It explores themes of resilience, family, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. Emoni's journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment, showing that even in the face of adversity, one can find a way to ignite their passions and achieve their goals.

Reviews
The Story Sanctuary · 2020-12-16
phenomenal 4.50

This book is phenomenal and they loved it so much they want to read it again. The story is heartwarming and engaging, with a strong emotional impact.

The reviewer found this book to be an absolute gem. They were deeply moved by the story and the characters, feeling a strong emotional connection throughout. The reviewer also appreciated the author's ability to capture the essence of teenage life, making the characters feel incredibly real and relatable. They loved the book so much that they plan to read it again soon, just to experience it all over again.

Quick quotes

    On the whole, this is a phenomenal book.

    I love it so much, and I feel like this is one I might read again soon, just to experience it all again.

    Acevedo's writing is engaging and heartwarming, making it a truly enjoyable read.

Rhapsody in Books · 2019-11-06
engaging 4.00

There is a lot to like about this book, with Acevedo's insights into teen life being particularly noteworthy. The story is engaging and well-crafted.

The reviewer found much to appreciate in this book, particularly the author's deep understanding of teenage thoughts, speech, and behavior. This authenticity makes the characters and their experiences feel very real. The reviewer also enjoyed the story's engaging and well-crafted narrative, which kept them invested throughout. The book's exploration of family, perseverance, and personal growth is both touching and inspiring.

Quick quotes

    There is a lot to like about this book.

    Acevedo clearly has insights into how teens think, speak, and behave.

    The story is engaging and well-crafted, making it a enjoyable read.

Read by Tiffany · Tiffany · 2019-07-27
touching 4.50

This is a touching story of family and perseverance, with the warmth of motherly love. The food descriptions are enticing and add to the overall charm.

Tiffany found this book to be a heartwarming tale that beautifully captures the essence of family and the strength of perseverance. The descriptions of food are particularly enticing and add a delightful layer to the story. The reviewer appreciated the warmth and love that permeate the narrative, making it a deeply touching and enjoyable read. The characters are well-developed, and their journeys are both relatable and inspiring.

Quick quotes

    With the Fire on High was a touching story of family and perseverance.

    The food descriptions are enticing and add to the overall charm.

    The warmth of motherly love embraces the reader throughout the story.

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