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_al's review against another edition
nice written book but I didn't connect to the story or characters. quieit frankly was bored.
Graphic: Child death and Grief
maiahhtratchh's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
fast-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
4.5
This story is a reflection of grief and the impacts of our actions, or non actions, on the ones around us. It is gut wrenching as it explores Marin’s life both before and after she left San Francisco to New York. The symbolism of the shells and ocean are mixed with the solid of snow and New York (a bustling city which, at its core, can be quite hollow). The relationship between Marin and Mabel left an ache in my chest and, although it appears that they will move forward together in a different capacity, it still broke my heart, the last chapter of the book. The ending was so beautiful, I kept repeating to myself that something good better happen because it’s just so heartbreakingly awful what Marin went through and, although it wasn’t the fairytale happily ever after it was a realistic portrayal of familial love. I will have to reread this in the future
Graphic: Child death, Death, Grief, and Death of parent
Moderate: Suicide and Abandonment
Minor: Mental illness and Panic attacks/disorders
Emotional neglect is a strong theme in this book
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