Review: A Slice of Life
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 02 28, 2012
The narrators are two sisters growing up on the island of Antigua with a mother and a new stepfather. Upon moving to a new neighborhood, they encounter another step-family. Ariya, the oldest daughter, is the Cinderella of the family. Her step mother favored her own children who were friends with the narrators. Ariya, at 15, was expected to do all of the women's work around the house. When a pet rabbit goes missing, Ariya is the scape goat.This story was really short, so I feel like I'm giving it all away. So I'll stop now. The colorful background of Antigua, with its spices, cooking, and everyday life make this a memorable slice of life. The narrators did not fully understand what was going on when they last saw Ariya, although they had an inkling. Only by looking back could they fully appreciate how difficult life was for an unloved stepdaughter.