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nyquillll's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
I really enjoyed reading about two Muslim characters who are deeply embedded in their culture and faith - much of which I do not have prior knowledge of. In this sense, this book was educational and enjoyable.
I was really rooting for Baz and Nada, and I think the flashbacks and flashforwards were sequenced well to move the story along.
I often was viscerally reacting to some scenes, and I could feel an ache and hope for Nada to realize the motive behind her actions and face her fears head on, which is admittedly hard to do in the context she’s in.
I think some of the challenges I had with this book were Baz’s actions toward Nada? I think the bullying aspect was kind of brushed over and not really dealt with or addressed as something serious? From my perception. I also found Baz very hot and cold, understandably so, but to the point that when he confessed he still loved Nada, I wished there were more fluffy parts to balance his iciness. That it wasn’t just a quick flip of a switch.
Despite the minor challenges, though, I really enjoyed this book and the author’s handling of disability, complex family dynamics, the external pressures on relationships, fears of not meeting expectations, the uncomfortable and painful journey toward becoming a better person, and the calling out of sexism and gender roles. I’m very excited to read this author’s other novels!
I was really rooting for Baz and Nada, and I think the flashbacks and flashforwards were sequenced well to move the story along.
I often was viscerally reacting to some scenes, and I could feel an ache and hope for Nada to realize the motive behind her actions and face her fears head on, which is admittedly hard to do in the context she’s in.
I think some of the challenges I had with this book were Baz’s actions toward Nada? I think the bullying aspect was kind of brushed over and not really dealt with or addressed as something serious? From my perception. I also found Baz very hot and cold, understandably so, but to the point that when he confessed he still loved Nada, I wished there were more fluffy parts to balance his iciness. That it wasn’t just a quick flip of a switch.
Despite the minor challenges, though, I really enjoyed this book and the author’s handling of disability, complex family dynamics, the external pressures on relationships, fears of not meeting expectations, the uncomfortable and painful journey toward becoming a better person, and the calling out of sexism and gender roles. I’m very excited to read this author’s other novels!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying and Grief