Review of Thirsty by Jas Hammonds
From the moment I read the title Thirsty, I knew I was in for a deep dive into a profound emotional landscape—one that mirrors the complexity of youth and the urgency of self-discovery. After falling hard for Hammonds’ previous work, We Deserve Monuments, I had a feeling that Thirsty might elevate her to one of my go-to authors. Spoiler alert: it absolutely did. This novel, a poignant blend of turmoil and triumph, envelops you in its rich narrative like a well-loved blanket on a chilly night.
At its core, Thirsty is a mature YA contemporary novel that explores themes of identity, belonging, and mental health through the eyes of Blake, a biracial girl grappling with the weight of expectations from a high-class secret society. Hammonds dives headfirst into a multitude of issues, including queerness, race, and the messiness of cultural identity, crafting a story that is both relatable and painfully real. Blake’s unfiltered first-person narration is a captivating journey through her struggles with alcohol, identity, and the messy truths of growing up. Hammonds’ ability to evoke such raw emotion left me captivated and heartbroken—all at once.
Hammonds’ writing style is where the magic truly lies. It flows seamlessly, coaxing readers into the intimate corners of Blake’s mind. Each passage feels like peeling back layers of an onion—there’s always more depth beneath the surface. Jas Hammonds has an incredible way of transforming complex emotions into relatable experiences. The pacing, while at times deliberate, mirrors the protagonist’s tumultuous journey; it demands your patience as it unearths genuine moments of connection and pain.
The relationships in Thirsty stand as a testament to Hammonds’ keen understanding of human connection. From the tangled familial bonds to the passionate yet toxic romances, every interaction is tinged with tension and authenticity. There’s one character, Netty, who simply steals the show as the true MVP of female friend group dynamics. The imperfections of these characters, their flaws and mistakes, create a tapestry that feels real. By the end, readers are left with a sense of catharsis, recognizing that healing often requires letting go of the very things that weigh us down.
A notable highlight for me was Hammonds’ exploration of self-sabotage—a topic that resonates with anyone who has wrestled with their own demons. Blake’s journey is messy, and as she navigates emotional pitfalls, you can’t help but root for her, even when she stumbles. The struggles are beautifully depicted, capturing that bittersweet essence of youth: the courage to confront one’s truths, and the necessity of learning from one’s missteps.
If you’re searching for a book that will take you on a tumultuous ride through emotions—one that challenges and uplifts—Thirsty is a must-read. It balances uncomfortable truths with heart and humor, carving out space for both pain and hope. For those who appreciate deeply authentic YA stories that evoke tears—from both sorrow and joy—Hammonds’ latest work will surely resonate.
Reading Thirsty was both an emotional rollercoaster and a reflective journey, leaving me filled with thoughts about identity and healing. It’s the kind of book you’ll want to keep close at hand, revisiting its lessons and characters whenever you need a reminder of your own resilience. So grab a copy, settle in, and prepare to feel—because Thirsty has a way of tapping into the very core of what it means to be alive.