A review by mellowbry
Darius the Great Deserves Better by Adib Khorram

emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75


Likes 
  • Theme: Compared to other books in which the asshole character (Trent in this instance) never changes from their horrible behavior, I liked that this book conveys the message that change could be possible for these kinds of people. This book gets the reader to cheer for Trent by giving glimpses of his true character, demonstrating goodness in him. Hopefully, when Trent realizes how Darius feels, and what Chip said, he'll finally make the effort to become a better person. 
  • Young Masculinity: This book is very BLUNT about matters concerning young men -> masturbation, sex, self-esteem issues about character and body, adult responsibility at a young age (jobs, babysitting), platonic and romantic affection, etc. This is all portrayed fantastically and presumably accurately. I'm glad this author wasn't afraid to talk about these things because it allows readers who grew up with Darius from the last book to relate to him again at a different age. 
  • Humor: The book is mad funny sometimes. (I don't know what else to include since I love Darius and didn't want this review to be too negative.)
Dislikes/Wished Was Better
  • Emotional Tension: My main issue with this book is that the emotional tension is not as strong as in the first book. The tension between Grandma and Oma, Darius's mom, and even Chip and Landon didn't impact me like Darius and his Dad, Babou, and Sohrab in the first book. The first one almost made me cry at its resolutions, while this one didn't make me react at all.  
  • Plot: Again, not as strong as the first book. Eventually, I noticed a home, school, practice, and work pattern. While it was never boring, I questioned if a second book was necessary.  
  • Love Triangle: Probably the weakest love triangle I've ever read. Landon and Chip are fine on their own but the drama was pretty dumb and it was clear from the beginning who Darius would choose.