Reviews

Big Familia, by Tomas Moniz

karithesecond's review against another edition

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted reflective 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

5.0

buttermellow's review against another edition

reflective slow-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

3.0

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Homophobia, Pregnancy, and Police brutality

Minor: Death of parent and Racism

jhuynh848's review against another edition

4.0

Really enjoyed the depiction of manhood and coming into oneself in adult years. In many ways it reminded me of the dynamics that occur in young adult fiction but moved into the older years and I found that very refreshing. In addition, I think the writing is effective in conveying the feelings and emotions of the central protagonist. I did find myself wishing their was a bit more meat and conflict in the book because I feel like the characters could handle it.

ajanik's review against another edition

5.0

I absolutely loved this book and it’s sincerity, thoughtfulness and charm.

iluv2readsm's review against another edition

4.0

really awesome book! a nice short read, i loved the main character. imagery **chefs kiss** just really freaking good!! i would read again

jessbishai's review

reflective medium-paced

3.75

gabbymksilvaa's review

emotional

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

5.0

adicesare's review against another edition

5.0

This is my favourite book that I’ve read this year - I didn’t want it to end. I wanted to be part of Juan’s family, or at least his life. The small but important moments are so perfectly captured in this book. I liked that the main character had some real personal stuff to work through and the honesty of Moniz’s writing. I wanted to soak it all up. Finishing the book, I found myself missing the characters. I’m not one to reread novels, but I have a feeling I’ll be coming back to this one, maybe more than once.

jasgems's review

challenging inspiring lighthearted reflective medium-paced

• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

rebeccahussey's review

This heartwarming novel tells the story of Juan Gutiérrez as he goes through a time of change. His daughter is about to move to college. His Berkeley neighborhood is gentrifying. Jared, his lover, wants a deeper commitment than he feels ready to make. Even his favorite dive bar is starting to become a popular destination for karaoke lovers. And his relationship with his parents is fraught, not least because they haven’t acknowledged his queerness. These are serious issues, and the novel gives them their due, but it’s also light in tone. Its focus is less on plot and more on character development. Watching Juan and his family and friends change and grow is enjoyable. Big Familia looks seriously at race, sexuality, class, and more, while never losing its warmth and charm.

https://bookriot.com/2019/11/15/indie-press-releases-november-2019/