A review by davinareads
Yellow Birds: A Novel by Karen Green, Karen Green

adventurous emotional slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Yellow Birds is a bohemian love story about self-discovery and found family, with a unique, almost dreamlike vibe. A groupie love story wasn’t exactly on my reading bingo card this year, but I found myself drawn in by the free-spirited world Karen Green created.

One of the things I loved about this book was the immersive setting. I’m not sure if "culture" is the right word, but the story has a distinct  setting —a world that feels like an endless summer party for outcasts and misfits. The level of detail and vivid descriptions made me feel like I was right there, experiencing this scene with the characters. It’s a story about identity, belonging, and finding family in unexpected places. The ending tied everything together nicely and was a highlight of the book for me.

However, the character growth felt a bit off. Kait, the main character, does evolve, but it’s almost like her growth is pushed by outside forces rather than coming from within. It left me wishing for a bit more self-driven change instead of the constant need to be saved. I also found it hard to connect with Kait, especially when she seemed to hold herself above others and set a level for what she considered to be an authentic experience.

Overall, Yellow Birds was a fascinating read that felt like stepping into a different world. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy stories about found family, identity, and the messy side of self-discovery.