didyoumeanbooks's review against another edition
3.0
2.5 of 5 Stars
A concise short story that flip-flops between the past and the present. I enjoyed the interplay between the two storylines separated by time, and I think this story was both well-written and well-narrated. I think there could've been a bit more to it; it brought up important themes of class, queer relationships, family expectations, and more, but, unfortunately, it didn't feel super rewarding or memorable in the grand scheme of everything I have and will read.
I know this is meant as a short story, but I wish it had a bit more to it -- I think I could have really loved it if it were a bit longer or continued further in its exploration of this family, past and present.
A concise short story that flip-flops between the past and the present. I enjoyed the interplay between the two storylines separated by time, and I think this story was both well-written and well-narrated. I think there could've been a bit more to it; it brought up important themes of class, queer relationships, family expectations, and more, but, unfortunately, it didn't feel super rewarding or memorable in the grand scheme of everything I have and will read.
I know this is meant as a short story, but I wish it had a bit more to it -- I think I could have really loved it if it were a bit longer or continued further in its exploration of this family, past and present.
Spoiler
P.S. Alice's thoughts about how she loved her son's roommate/partner that he had brought home but she never wanted to see him again reminded me vaguely of Daisy from the Great Gatsby talking about wanting her daughter to be a beautiful fool. I think it's the parallel of wishing for their child to cut off beautiful and important parts of themselves to have "easier" lives within the societies and roles they've been placed into.blackcatkai's review against another edition
3.0
I can't argue that Alam isn't a good writer because he absolutely is, but his descriptions feel a bit too wordy for my personal taste and this one felt like it ended too suddenly. I know its just a short story, but it feels like it could've used just a bit more. still hits a bit in the heart, though.
katesmithfilm's review
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
notsogreen's review
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
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