Book Review: Needy Little Things by Channelle Desamours
Have you ever stumbled upon a book that resonates so deeply with your own experiences that it feels almost magical? That’s exactly what happened when I picked up Needy Little Things by Channelle Desamours. From the moment I read about Sariyah Bryant’s extraordinary ability to sense others’ needs, I was not only captivated, but also reminded of the ways we all crave connection, understanding, and sometimes, a helping hand.
At the heart of this YA mystery is Sariyah, a 17-year-old who carries a red duffel bag—her own ‘Santa bag’—filled with everyday items to help those around her. It’s a clever metaphor for our human desires: we often want to be the "fixer" in others’ lives. But the stakes are raised when her friend Deja goes missing at a music festival, echoing the haunting disappearance of Sariyah’s best friend, Tessa, five years prior. The narrative plunges us into a world filled with both supernatural intrigue and the raw, real emotions tied to loss and searching.
Desamours masterfully combines tension and beauty in her writing. The pacing feels carefully crafted; it unhurriedly leads us down a twisting path while building an undercurrent of unease. The sense of dread is palpable, especially as Sariyah grapples not only with her psychic gift but also her own emotional and mental turmoil. The dichotomy of her ability—it’s both a gift and a curse—simmers throughout the novel, making readers question just how much we should bear the weight of others’ needs.
What truly stood out to me were the character dynamics. Each character, from Sariyah to Malcolm and Jude, is layered with vulnerabilities and backstories that contribute to the overarching themes of loss, race, and societal bias surrounding missing children and teenagers. Desamours doesn’t shy away from these topics; instead, she weaves them seamlessly into the fabric of the story, prompting readers to confront uncomfortable truths about our world. One line that left a mark on me was when Sariyah reflects on her overwhelming ability, noting, “Pepper spray. Pepper spray. Pepper spray.” It’s a haunting call to action wrapped in simple urgency that embodies both the spirit of friendship and the palpable fear of the unknown.
The writing style is so immersive that I found myself highlighting passages, certain that I’d revisit them time and again. Desamours’ debut is not just a standalone story; rather, it leaves me yearning for more, for a deeper exploration of these characters and their journeys. I can’t help but cross my fingers for a series—there’s so much more to unpack!
In conclusion, Needy Little Things is a poignant exploration of our deepest human needs alongside a thrilling mystery. I can wholeheartedly recommend this book to fans of YA literature that doesn’t shy away from heavy themes yet maintains a heartfelt core. If you’ve ever felt the weight of wanting to help others, or if you enjoy stories that challenge societal norms while keeping you on the edge of your seat, then this book is definitely for you. Channelle Desamours has left her mark, and I can’t wait to see where she takes us next!