A review by stremps
This Is How It Always Is, by Laurie Frankel
funny
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
I read on a whim and it was longer than I expected (~11 hours) but ended up being worth it. The writing is clever and has rhythm but was too “pop lit” for me at times. I enjoyed the story of the family and the turns it took.
The narrative moves between the characters and, at times, I felt uncomfortable with not centering the trans character’s voice, but ultimately it was interesting to hear the other perspectives and I feel the trans character had their story told. I have read that the within has a trans daughter which makes me feel better about the novel and the narrative position being primarily parental.
The narrative moves between the characters and, at times, I felt uncomfortable with not centering the trans character’s voice, but ultimately it was interesting to hear the other perspectives and I feel the trans character had their story told. I have read that the within has a trans daughter which makes me feel better about the novel and the narrative position being primarily parental.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Hate crime, Murder, Transphobia, Homophobia, and Outing
Moderate: Medical content, Bullying, and Child death