abbeyroad1410's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
This book is definitely slow at times, and while I appreciate the clear message that everyone deserves a choice in motherhood, sometimes it felt like it was being hammered into my head a bit too hard. Reading from the perspective of various characters across time is always very interesting (and made the ending that much better), but sometimes I wondered about the purpose of Angela in the story. She is very much a plot device (with her own, kind of incomplete motherhood story) that has many chapters dedicated to her perspective. I think it was part of what made the story slow.
The main characters all offer a dynamic perspective on the idea of motherhood and what makes someone a mother. It is understanding of the complicated relationship with adoption, abortion, and IVF. Nancy and Evelyn have very exciting stories that suck in a reader. Angela has a healthy relationship with complex issues but a lot of love and support.
Overall, I would recommend this book if you like a creative perspective that offers a political opinion.
Graphic: Suicide, Abortion, and Suicide attempt
Moderate: Violence and Miscarriage
Minor: Death of parent
rebar351's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Graphic: Medical trauma, Child abuse, Sexual violence, Violence, Suicide attempt, Suicidal thoughts, Abortion, and Confinement
texas666's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
Graphic: Miscarriage, Physical abuse, Child abuse, Forced institutionalization, Grief, Abortion, Abandonment, Death, Emotional abuse, Confinement, Infertility, Medical content, Medical trauma, Violence, and Suicide
Moderate: Sexual assault, Sexual content, and Rape
tracey1981's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
Graphic: Suicide attempt and Violence
Moderate: Rape and Abortion
soobooksalot's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Where to begin on Looking For Jane?
For starters, I loved this book. Such important messages about choices, motherhood and female empowerment; of medical safety and accessibility.
Of heartache, and groundbreaking victories for women.
Looking For Jane is told in multiple timelines among three main characters - Evelyn, Nancy and Angela.
Blending composite fact and fiction in Canadian history from the 1960s to present, the characters provide emotional insights into varied reproductive journies.
We are taken from a "maternity home" with forced adoptions in the 60s, to the road of legalizing abortions in the 80s, and the choices not easily - or at all - afforded in each.
I'm beyond impressed with debut author Heather Marshall's writing. It feels genuine, effortless (though I know there's no such thing as effortless in writing).
This is a special, unflinching read with some unexpected moments that absolutely kept my pages turning.
Though I know not everyone will be comfortable with the content, it's such an important part of our recent history and becoming more relevant each day.
I can't recommend this book enough.
Graphic: Abortion
Moderate: Suicide, Suicide attempt, Miscarriage, Death, Grief, Physical abuse, Violence, Blood, Medical trauma, Pregnancy, and Self harm
Minor: Cancer and Infidelity