Book Review: If We Were a Movie by Zakiya N. Jamal
When I first stumbled upon If We Were a Movie, I couldn’t help but feel drawn in by the vibrant cover showcasing two dynamic young women, and the promise of a sapphic romance wrapped in the charming facade of a coming-of-age tale. This debut by Zakiya N. Jamal was bound to spark curiosity, and despite my mixed feelings about the book, I’m grateful to have experienced it. After all, sometimes the journey is just as important as the destination!
The story follows Rochelle, a dedicated and soon-to-be college applicant with dreams of Wharton. Smart, introverted, and a touch hot-headed, she wrestles with her burgeoning feelings for her long-time friend, Amira, who flips the script on life, turning her academic standing around and keeping the sass levels high. The beauty of their relationship is captured in fun banter and evolving dynamics, which felt relatable and authentic. I noticed myself rooting for them as their friendship blossomed amidst the backdrop of their love for theater.
One of the highlights of If We Were a Movie is the diverse cast of characters that populate Horizon, the theater where much of the action unfolds. From the overachiever to the lovable theater kid, the side characters really brought this world to life for me. While each one fits a familiar trope, I must admit they felt a bit flat at times—like sketches of vibrant personas rather than fully fleshed-out characters. Still, there’s charm in their predictability, and I found myself enjoying their quirks.
On the writing front, Jamal masters the art of lighthearted narrative; her prose flows effortlessly and invites readers into the fun slice-of-life adventures with Rochelle and Amira. However, I found myself longing for more depth. The plot occasionally dragged, and with certain developments being somewhat predictable, I felt the tension ebbing away as I anticipated outcomes before they arrived. What could have been an exhilarating page-turner veered into familiarity.
I have to mention my fondness for Jennie and Lisa, as well as the energetic Kerry—characters who spark joy and excitement with their antics. Kerry, in particular, is the kind of friend everyone wishes they had: lively and fun, someone who could light up any situation.
Overall, I came away from If We Were a Movie with a mixed bag of emotions. While I rate it 2.5/5 stars—lower than I’d hoped—this book is far from bad. It offers feel-good moments and the warmth of friendship and first love, making it an excellent pick for anyone looking for a light, enjoyable read. Whether you’re a fan of young adult romance or simply seeking a story that tug at the heartstrings, Jamal’s debut has something for you.
So, if you’re on the fence about adding this to your TBR, I encourage you to give it a shot when it hits shelves on April 22, 2025. After all, a movie might shine through despite its bumps along the way, and sometimes, the charm lies in the imperfections.