Book Report: The Full Picture by Jessica Carmichael
By: Karen Mims
Young love. Self-discovery. Fresh. What more could you want in a novel? Check out this book report to see if The Full Picture by Jessica Carmichael should be next on your reading list.
BEFORE WE DIVE IN…
Genre: YA Contemporary Romance
Age Group: Young adult, 14+
Content Warnings: Death of a parent (mentioned throughout the book)
Series Standing: Standalone
Spice Level: ⅕—There was no spice, but a kiss here and there.
ABOUT THE BOOK (synopsis)
This heartfelt debut follows our main character, Robyn Carter, a college freshman, as she travels from Canada to Ghana for her winter break. This trip marks the first time she has visited Ghana since her mother’s passing about ten years prior. While in Ghana, she meets her grandmother’s neighbor, Osei Mensah, a creative photographer. She also meets Kelvin Williams, Osei’s childhood friend, who is also visiting Ghana from Canada. Robyn visits her family for the winter to learn more about her mother as her father has refused to talk about her for the last decade. Emotions surge, creativity flourishes, and feelings evolve throughout her trip. Robyn is stuck between pursuing her dream of becoming a photographer or pursuing her father’s plan of her to become a pharmacist. This coming-of-age novel explores mending relationships, discovering one's voice, and falling in love.
READER PROFILE
This might be for you if:
You enjoyed picking sides while watching or reading The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han. Instead of Team Jeremiah or Team Conrad, you’ll debate between Team Osei or Team Kelvin
You want to read more about Ghanian characters who are struggling to figure out what life path they want to pursue, like Stephen in Small Worlds by Caleb Azumah Nelson
You enjoyed reading about Twinke in From Twinkle, With Love by Sandya Menon pursue her creative filmmaking passion while falling in a love triangle
You loved reading Sweet Heat or Honey & Spice by Bolu Babalola, Jessica Carmichael’s writing inspiration
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jessica is a proud Bajan-Ghanaian born and raised in 'the city above Toronto.' She is passionate about writing and reading stories that depict the wonderful yet complex tales of Black youth. Jessica is a published sports journalist, and The Full Picture is her debut novel” (Hibiscus Press).
WHAT READERS THINK
“Robyn must confront the weight of her father’s expectations, the ache of her unfulfilled creative passions, and her own fears about stepping into the life she actually wants to lead. Carmichael beautifully explores these tensions, allowing Robyn’s growth to unfold with honesty and tenderness. And while the story carries emotional depth, it’s also infused with the lively banter, joy, and infectious energy that define Detty December, making the book both poignant and delightfully fun. The prose is so vividly described that you feel folded into the celebration, the family gatherings, and the emotional shifts right alongside the characters. There were several moments that made me smile, and Robyn’s evolution left me feeling genuinely happy for her as she found clarity, connection, and courage…”
-bookmarkedbychalon on Storygraph
“The Full Picture had all the right ingredients—a fresh setting in Accra, layered family dynamics, and a heartfelt search for identity and connection. The exploration of Robyn’s family history was the most compelling part, but the love triangle felt more like a distraction than a draw. With plenty of angst and a distinctly YA/NA vibe, it leans heavier on emotional turbulence than grounded romance. Still, if you’re looking for a coming-of-age story that blends family, culture, and self-discovery, this one has its moments.”
—npetit01 on Storygraph
“I have been in a bit of a reading slump but when I had the chance to get early access to read The Full Picture, I jumped at the chance and I’m so glad I did. I devoured this book in less than 24 hours. This is a book for the West African Diasporan lover girls. It was relatable yet not predictable. I love how deeply we got to know all of the characters in depth especially Robyn. I saw myself in her. I love love loved it! Also, for the audiobook version, the narrator did a great job. Super captivating and engaging. Also I need a sequel. Stat!”
—Reni Odetoyinbo on Goodreads
BOOK REPORTER’S REVIEW
Oh, Robyn. I can connect with you on so many levels! I loved reading about Robyn mending her relationship with her father while learning more about herself and her mother. The way Robyn was learning about Ghanaian culture while immersing herself for the first time in decades is so relatable to my own personal experiences. As for the love triangle, I am always so invested in the way the love interests will fight each other over the main girl! If you're anything like me, then you may have a little bit of a hard time following all of the characters because there were so many in certain scenes. That didn't take anything away from Robyn's love triangle or conflict, though! Overall, my emotions were a rollercoaster just like Robyn's. This was heartfelt and joyful at times, but sad at others. I'd recommend reading this if you want to read on girlhood, Ghanaian culture, and self-discovery!
You can pre-order a copy of The Full Picture here! Thank you, Hibiscus Press and Netgalley for an uncorrected e-ARC!