I think I started reading "Purple Hibiscus" once and also felt like it was slow-going. I ended up abandoning it at some point because I did not have the attention span at the moment. However, it is on my list of books to give another chance some day since I do remember liking it.

"The River has Roots" has glowing reviews by a lot of my friends so I think I'll put it on my list as well. I also still plan on reading El-Mohtar's "This is how you lose the Time War".

Have a fun time with your friend!