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alexisgarcia's review
dark
funny
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
hmmm. i think some of these stories were great, and others were pretty bad. that is the struggle with short story collections. i think maybe this just wasn’t for me to completely get? i think some people would adore this though.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Infidelity, Mental illness, Sexual content, Toxic relationship, Grief, Abortion, and Pregnancy
marywahlmeierbracciano's review against another edition
challenging
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I, who often have trouble getting through books of short stories, thoroughly enjoyed this debut collection by Chinese / American / Australian author Paige Clark. This book is quietly hilarious, even as Clark contemplates serious topics like abortion, jealousy, climate change, and the rise of anti-Asian hate amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of the characters grieve–the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship or job, the absence of their culture in a new home–and devise elaborate plans for redemption. Each story features a character whose name is Elizabeth, or one of its many variations, although sometimes characters go unnamed. The book is dedicated to them. Often unconcerned with likeability, each character simply wants their story to be heard. I can’t wait to read more!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racial slurs, Racism, Sexual content, Grief, Abortion, and Death of parent
Minor: Death, Domestic abuse, Hate crime, Suicidal thoughts, Terminal illness, Vomit, Medical trauma, and Pregnancy