Needy Little Things

Channelle Desamours’ Needy Little Things is a psychological thriller that takes readers on a twisty emotional journey blending important social commentary with mystery and supernatural elements, this novel will appeal to fans of One of Us Is Lying, Ace of Spades, and A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder.

At the heart of the story is Sariyah, a fiercely determined protagonist with an extraordinary gift: the ability to sense people’s needs and a pressure to solve their problems and respond by making sure she can always do so. Despite and because of her psychic intuition, she struggles with guilt and frustration at the historical, devastating disappearance of her friend Tessa, the twin sister of her equally good friend Malcolm. When her friend Deja also vanishes during what should have been a joyful birthday celebration at a music festival, Sariyah refuses to let her friend become another forgotten statistic and throws herself into both finding Deja and keeping her name alive.

Desamour blends the suspense of the characters’ investigation with poignant reflections on systemic issues, particularly the neglect of missing Black women and girls by law enforcement. As Desamour herself says: ‘This book centres Black teens who grapple, not only with the pain of loss, but also the resentment that comes with knowing their classmate, their cousin, their sibling, their friend, won’t receive the same attention they would if they were white.’

The narrative is compelling as Sariyah uncovers clues that force her to question not only her surroundings but also the people closest to her. Desamour balances the dark intensity and excitement of the mystery with emotional and realistic teenage vulnerability. The supporting characters, Sariyah’s tight-knit friend group and their unique families, add richness and complexity to the story and Sariyah’s ESP is woven into the plot skilfully, enhancing the narrative without overshadowing the realism of all that is at stake.

This is an exciting novel with heart, intellect, and a vital perspective.