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If We Were a Movie
If We Were a Movie | Zakiya N Jamal
4 posts | 2 read
Booksmart meets Phantom of the Megaplex in Zakiya N. Jamal's debut enthralling enemies-to-lovers queer romance, set against the backdrop of a historic Black-owned movie theater, the quirky employees who work there, and the suburbs of Long Island. Perfect for fans of Leah Johnson and Today Tonight Tomorrow. Lights. Camera. Love? Rochelle "the Shell" Coleman is laser focused on only three things: becoming valedictorian, getting into Wharton, and, of course, taking down her annoyingly charismatic nemesis and only academic competition, Amira Rodriguez. However, despite her stellar grades, Rochelle's college application is missing that extra special something: a job. When Rochelle gets an opportunity to work at Horizon Cinemas, the beloved Black-owned movie theater, she begrudgingly jumps at the chance to boost her chances at getting into her dream school. There's only one problem: Amira works there... and is also her boss. Rochelle feels that working with Amira is its own kind of horror movie, but as the two begin working closely together, Rochelle starts to see Amira in a new light, one that may have her beginning to actually... like her? But Horizon's in trouble, and when mysterious things begin happening that make Horizon's chances of staying open slimmer, it's up to the employees to solve the mystery before it's too late, but will love also find its way into the spotlight?
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review
WanderingBookaneer
If We Were a Movie | Zakiya N Jamal
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Pickpick

Such a cute YA rivals-to-lovers romance! I loved the Horizon Theater setting and all the side characters—it brought back fond memories of my own movie theater days. Rochelle and Amira had great chemistry, and even though Rochelle had some oblivious moments and I didn‘t love the prank subplot, this was a fun, feel-good read with a lot of heart and community love. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #CoverLove

quote
sarahchura
If We Were a Movie | Zakiya N Jamal

“When I finish speaking, Amira, Shawn, and Danny are staring at me. I'm not sure if they're looking at me like that because that may be the most I've ever said in one go here at Horizon, or because they're shocked that I'm taking control of the situation.“

blurb
sarahchura
If We Were a Movie | Zakiya N Jamal

This book is a great story that reflects the experiences of many teens today. However, with my future elementary students, I would only recommend this book to fourth or fifth graders that need a more challenging text to read than what is provided in the classroom library. The story feels like a more advanced reading level but it also provides a good storyline that is unique but also relatable.

review
sarahchura
If We Were a Movie | Zakiya N Jamal
Pickpick

If We Were a Movie by Zakiya N. Jamal (2025) follows Rochelle, a driven teen who clashes with her ex-friend Amira while working at a Black-owned cinema. Mixing romance, ambition, and identity, the story celebrates community and queer joy in a fun, heartfelt way.
Genre: Contemporary Realistic Fiction