Reviews

The Heart Does Not Bend by Makeda Silvera

danielle_schmidt4812's review

Go to review page

challenging dark medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

amckiereads's review

Go to review page

4.0

A beautiful generational novel that follows Molly and her family, as she grows up with her grandmother in Jamaica, they move to Canada and live with her mother, and then as she has a child and grandchild herself. The novel explores family dynamics, the responsibility we feel and take on for families, and what that means for how we live our lives. It also explores the immigrant experience in Canada and post-colonial life in Jamaica.

Through a side character and Molly herself, we also see the ways in which religion and prejudice affect the lives of those who embrace queer sexuality. We see the different ways that individuals choose to reconcile family responsibilities and prejudices with their authentic selves and loves.

Really great novel.

kbowers's review

Go to review page

dark reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

werds's review

Go to review page

4.0

Sadness and unfairness are parts of life, but that doesn't mean you should accept them. This story is almost a gothic family drama, and no matter how many bright images shown and amazing food mentioned, the clouds won't lift.