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litprof's review against another edition
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
2.75
The Archive of Alternative Endings gives us a catchy title and compelling concept of weaving a polyvocal achronological queer retelling of Hansel and Gretel around the appearances of Halley's comet. Unfortunately, the writing, narrative, and characterization are sparse to the point of frailty, failing to carry through on the promises of the the title and premise. It feels quickly stitched together of various flash fiction, cnf, and memoir pieces. And perhaps it simply wasn't for me. I was expecting something queer, and not just through the mention of AIDs. The binary code space probe bits could strike some as clever, but I read enough sf to have rolled my eyes. And I can imagine how it might be soothing to someone dealing with the loss of a sibling, but I'm an only child who just read a better novel about siblings.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Homophobia, and Abandonment
maatkare's review
challenging
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Homophobia, and Abandonment
Moderate: Incest and Sexism
Minor: Suicidal thoughts and Pregnancy