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thewordsdevourer's review
challenging
dark
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
2.0
*Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC
The Impatient provides a revelatory look into infuriating cultural customs in a part of the world that is rarely spotlighted, however as a novel I simply feel impartial to it.
The book definitely sheds light on the plight of women in Cameroon whose lives are controlled by familial expectations, strict religious doctrine, and sexist cultural traditions. I like how Amal depicts the oppressive environment that's created by men but upheld by all, with women being complicit through generational, lifelong socialization and pitted against one another, and particularly enjoy Safira's section of the book. The culture is vibrant here as well, and I learn more about local food, customs, beliefs, and way of life.
However, I am not too fond of the writing (either that or perhaps the translation) that seems juvenile at times despite its serious subject. The prose, in my opinion, doesn't really befit the story, and would've benefited from more layered complexity. And while I'm aware that the characters mirror reality, many of them come across as overly flat and one-dimensional, and their struggles - while infuriating and enraging - somehow fail to make much impact with me.
Although I'm personally impartial to the novel, this is still a relevatory read that achieved the author's aim of shedding light on oppressive and misogynistic cultural traditions.
The Impatient provides a revelatory look into infuriating cultural customs in a part of the world that is rarely spotlighted, however as a novel I simply feel impartial to it.
The book definitely sheds light on the plight of women in Cameroon whose lives are controlled by familial expectations, strict religious doctrine, and sexist cultural traditions. I like how Amal depicts the oppressive environment that's created by men but upheld by all, with women being complicit through generational, lifelong socialization and pitted against one another, and particularly enjoy Safira's section of the book. The culture is vibrant here as well, and I learn more about local food, customs, beliefs, and way of life.
However, I am not too fond of the writing (either that or perhaps the translation) that seems juvenile at times despite its serious subject. The prose, in my opinion, doesn't really befit the story, and would've benefited from more layered complexity. And while I'm aware that the characters mirror reality, many of them come across as overly flat and one-dimensional, and their struggles - while infuriating and enraging - somehow fail to make much impact with me.
Although I'm personally impartial to the novel, this is still a relevatory read that achieved the author's aim of shedding light on oppressive and misogynistic cultural traditions.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexism, Misogyny, Domestic abuse, and Physical abuse
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Violence, Rape, Infidelity, and Mental illness
Minor: Miscarriage
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