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alison_massey's review
dark
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
This was a slow read, which isn't necessarily surprising from Atwood and isn't necessarily a problem. While there were aspects that enjoyed (which were mainly down to just enjoying Atwood's way of writing), I did feel a bit like the book wasn't really going anywhere, and I wasn't satisfied by the conclusion of the relationship between the main character and her "friend / tormentor", which the blurb positions as the main concern of the book. Overall, I liked it, but I wouldn't recommend it to someone who isn't already familiar with / a fan of Atwood.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying and Suicidal thoughts
averyhawthorne's review
dark
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.25
"I'm supposed to have accumulated things by now: possessions, responsibilities, achievements, experience and wisdom. I'm supposed to be a person of substance."
"'I'm not mad because I'm a woman' I say. 'I'm mad because you're an asshole.'"
While Atwood is a beautiful writer, the same story could've been told in about 300 pages. The entire book blends the past and present of one character, but the character isn't exactly lovable, unique, or all that interesting. A large portion also covers her adolescence with awful friends who are bully her and, it turns out, I hate reading about bad friends. It gave me The Bell Jar energy (reflective & dark), so if you loved that book then this one might be for you!
"'I'm not mad because I'm a woman' I say. 'I'm mad because you're an asshole.'"
While Atwood is a beautiful writer, the same story could've been told in about 300 pages. The entire book blends the past and present of one character, but the character isn't exactly lovable, unique, or all that interesting. A large portion also covers her adolescence with awful friends who are bully her and, it turns out, I hate reading about bad friends. It gave me The Bell Jar energy (reflective & dark), so if you loved that book then this one might be for you!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying
Moderate: Infidelity
Minor: Suicidal thoughts and Suicide
jennifer_'s review
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Bullying, Infidelity, Self harm, Sexism, Suicidal thoughts, and Suicide