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waterbear0821's review against another edition
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This book isn’t perfect, but I did stay up until 1am binge reading it in one sitting, and that’s worth something. It’s a compelling story about family, immigration, trauma, and a sprinkling of magical realism. The climax and denouement were a bit of a chaotic tumble and that felt like a bit of a let down after weaving these intricate family stories, but there’s a dose of realism there, too. It doesn’t tie up too neatly because life isn’t neat. Still, though, I was all set to be invested in a gut-wrenching finale and it felt just a little meh. Overall, though, I did really enjoy it. The characters are a bit complicated but still endearing. The story is steeped in political morality but it’s generally well executed and not too cliche. A lucky find at the library, I’m glad I picked it up!
Graphic: Death, Sexual violence, Violence, Death of parent, Murder, and Deportation
Moderate: Cancer, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Fatphobia, Physical abuse, Sexual assault, and Police brutality
imstephtacular's review against another edition
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
3.75
Graphic: Violence, Blood, Medical content, Pregnancy, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Body shaming, Bullying, Cancer, Death, Emotional abuse, Fatphobia, Physical abuse, Racism, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Dementia, Grief, Murder, Abandonment, Alcohol, Classism, and Deportation
Minor: Child death, Cursing, Drug use, Rape, Terminal illness, Torture, Xenophobia, Vomit, and Death of parent
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