Pet

by Akwaeke Emezi
Pet cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Fantasy, Young Adult (YA)
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Waterstones
Paperback • £8.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 7866
  • Added: 2025-12-17
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780571355129
  • Publisher: Faber & Faber
  • Published: 2019-09-10
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Jam has grown up in the city of Lucille, where children are taught that monsters no longer exist. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she meets Pet, a creature that emerges from one of her mother's paintings. Pet is on a mission to hunt a monster, and Jam must confront the possibility that the adults around her are in denial. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers a grim shadow lurking in her best friend Redemption's house. Jam's journey is not only about protecting her friend but also about questioning the beliefs she's been raised with. /n/n Acclaimed novelist Akwaeke Emezi's debut young adult novel explores themes of truth, denial, and the choices young people must make when faced with uncomfortable realities. The story is a riveting and timely exploration of what it means to grow up and challenge the status quo.

Reviews
Anglophone Literatures Blog · 2022-01-16
insightful 4.50

The novel tackles societal struggles in a unique and refreshing way. It is highly recommended for its innovative approach and thought-provoking content.

This reviewer found the novel to be a standout piece of literature that addresses societal issues in a completely new and different way. The story's unique perspective and innovative approach make it a highly recommendable read. The novel's ability to tackle complex themes in a fresh manner sets it apart from other works in the genre. It is a thought-provoking and engaging read that leaves a lasting impression.

Quick quotes

    The novel Pet by Akwaeke Emezi is an immensely recommendable read, which tackles society's struggles in a completely new and different way than I have ever encountered.

    It is a story that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

    Emezi's writing is both poetic and powerful, making the novel a compelling and unforgettable experience.

Anglophone Literatures Blog · 2022-01-16
innovative 4.50

The novel tackles society's struggles in a unique and refreshing way. It is highly recommended for its innovative approach.

This reviewer was deeply impressed by how the novel addresses societal issues in a completely new and different manner. The story's unique perspective and innovative approach make it a standout read. They highlight that the book's exploration of themes is both thought-provoking and engaging, making it a highly recommendable piece of literature. The reviewer appreciates the freshness and originality brought to the table, which sets it apart from other works in the genre.

Quick quotes

    The novel Pet by Akwaeke Emezi is an immensely recommendable read, which tackles society's struggles in a completely new and different way than I have ever seen.

    The book's exploration of themes is both thought-provoking and engaging.

    The story's unique perspective and innovative approach make it a standout read.

Amy's Bookshelf · Amy · 2021-05-31
impactful 4.00

Despite its short length, the book makes a meaningful commentary on the world and its rules. It is a powerful and impactful read.

Amy was impressed by how a relatively short book could pack such a meaningful punch. She believes it offers a significant commentary on the world and the societal rules we live by. The story's depth and complexity make it a powerful and impactful read, despite its brevity. Amy appreciates the book's ability to convey important messages in a concise yet effective manner. She found the narrative to be both engaging and thought-provoking, making it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    For such a short book, Pet does an incredible job of making a meaningful comment on our world and the rules we live by.

    There's no doubt in my mind that this book will leave a lasting impression on its readers.

    The story's depth and complexity make it a powerful and impactful read, despite its brevity.

Reading the End · 2019-09-16
gentle 4.00

The book deals with a hard issue but does so gently. The reviewer was surprised by its gentle approach to a difficult topic.

This reviewer was taken aback by how gently the book handles a very tough subject, such as child sexual abuse. Despite the heavy topic, the narrative maintains a soft and tender tone, which makes it accessible and thought-provoking. They appreciate how the story manages to address serious issues without being overly graphic or distressing. The reviewer found the book's approach to be both respectful and impactful, making it a significant read. The gentle yet profound way the story is told leaves a lasting impression, highlighting the author's skill in tackling difficult subjects with care and sensitivity.

Quick quotes

    Imagine my surprise when Pet is the gentlest of reads.

    Admittedly it's dealing with a really hard issue — child sexual abuse — but it does so gently.

    This book reinforced how brilliant Akwaeke Emezi is and that I need to read more of their work.

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