A review by rachellle
Butter Honey Pig Bread by francesca ekwuyasi

challenging emotional hopeful reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

The themes of this book are perfect for the winter hibernation: estranged family, isolation, grief, searching, joy, heartbreak. 

The way each character's POV was written put together an intriguing story switching between past and present and exploring their connectedness/separation. I was absolutely impressed especially with Taiye's chapters; starting in the present and moving back in her life to her experiences with isolation, grief, yearning. Her character was so well fleshed out and all her relationships brought out more of her personality (and her queerness was presented so beautifully).  

Before I knew it I'd reached the last part. The release of all the family's grief, anger, sadness, and guilt was a great resolution. The underlying discomfort in the house was resolved after years and separation and months of avoidance. I was completely absorbed in the hearbreak and intimacy each character's POV provided. I can't wait to see what else the authors releases.
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