Like No Other

Like No Other

Una LaMarche

Like No Other, by Una LaMarche, is a modern day Romeo and Juliet story. Devorah, the “Juliet,” has an Hasidic Jewish family and culture. On the other hand, the “Romeo,” Jaxon, is a dark-skinned boy with a Caribbean heritage. They both live on the New York streets but completely on opposite sides. Deborah’s family never travels on to Jaxon’s side, and vice versa. But when Devorah goes to the hospital with her laboring sister, there is a lightning storm. Both Devorah and Jaxon get stuck into an elevator together when the power goes out. Although Jaxon has no problem talking and interacting with Devorah in the elevator, Devorah, on the other hand, although she is attracted to Jaxon, is still loyal to her religion and keeps to herself. But, the attraction between them does spark. Although Devorah is forbidden to see any boy, and Jaxon’s friend encourage him to stop chasing after Devorah, the two lovers still forbiddenly see each other. Do they end up happily ever after, or do they have to split apart? Read Like No Other to find out what happens.

Like No Other, is a heartwarming, and heartbreaking story. Both Devorah and Jaxon have their own limits, but when it comes to the other, they will break all the rules to be together. The characters have their own personality, backstory, and emotion that is raw and real. I loved this book because of how real the characters are portrayed and shown throughout the story. The book is perfect for readers who enjoy stories about forbidden love, or the story of “Romeo and Juliet.”

Grade Level:

- Suggested: 6th-8th

- Advanced: 5th-6th

Genre: Realistic-fiction, romance

Key Elements: Forbidden love, Hasidic Jewish heritage, culture

Possible Themes: Sometimes you have to choose between family/religion and love

Overall Rating: 4/5

Happy Reading!

-The Book Lover-

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