burnourhistory's review against another edition
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Child abuse, Emotional abuse, Hate crime, Murder, Racial slurs, Racism, Sexual assault, and Physical abuse
Minor: Forced institutionalization and Alcoholism
readingwithtrey's review
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Wade in the Water is a coming of age debut told through dual story lines and POVs. One story is that of Katherine St. James, a white woman who grew up in the Jim Crow south. The other is the story of Ella, a Black girl struggling to find her way in 1980s Mississippi. When their lives intertwine, they both find more than they bargained for.
Wow, you guys, this one was TOUGH. I have so many conflicting emotions. My heart broke for Ella. The odds were stacked against her from birth, and I just really wanted to jump in the book and hold her so tight. Her chapters made me cry so many tears.
I honestly don’t know where to start with Katherine St. James. Her chapters made me sick to my stomach and were so hard to get through. She did give me hope that someone with so much hate can actually be somewhat rehabilitated. This is where the book lost a star for me. I won’t discredit the work she was doing, but I felt that her growth was lacking and kind of left unfinished. Her conscience was basically fighting for its life, but the hate instilled in her by her father was still evident even after her “changing.”
I do think this was an excellent debut and should be required reading. It’s a great conversation starter and would be a great book club pick!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racial slurs, Murder, Death, Racism, Child abuse, Emotional abuse, Pedophilia, Sexual assault, and Sexual harassment
Moderate: Police brutality
Minor: Rape
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