Brushed Between Cultures

by Samarra St. Hilaire

FBT review:

Embark on a compelling journey of choices and resilience with "Brushed Between Cultures" by Samarra St. Hilaire. Follow Manushka as she grapples with the clash between her Haitian heritage and the desire to forge her own path in the bustling streets of New York City. Forbidden from dating until she reaches specific career goals, Manushka defies expectations by pursuing her passion for art and embracing a secret relationship. Join Manushka, Janae, and Widelene as they navigate the challenges of high school, celebrating the power of friendship and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. Immerse yourself in this poignant tale of courage, identity, and the boundless spirit of youth.

Publisher Description:

Decisions and consequences. Growth and heartbreak.

Manushka's teen life is a rollercoaster. She loves her parents and culture, but growing up in a Haitian household in New York City brings its share of challenges. Manushka wants to date, like other girls her age, but she can't. According to her mother, dating is absolutely off-limits until Manushka achieves the goal of becoming either a nurse, lawyer, or engineer— the only recognized paths to success in her mother's eyes. Then, and only then, will she be deemed ready to get married.

Well, Manushka has other plans.

Not only does she find a way to have a secret boyfriend, but Manushka also wants to become an artist. This bold aspiration challenges her family's expectations, setting her on a collision course with tradition. How long can she keep these secrets? Along with her trusted best friends, Janae and Widelene, Manushka navigates through the high school experience filled with both the joys of budding friendships and the trials of unforeseen challenges. Their unbreakable bond and adventurous spirit illuminate the path through adolescence, showcasing the power of loyalty and the importance of chasing one's dreams, no matter the obstacles.