A review by carojust
I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman

dark hopeful mysterious reflective sad fast-paced
  • 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? No

5.0

I started this book without reading any spoilers, or even the introduction. I wouldn't even know this was science fiction -- it could be any time period, agnostic of technology other than electricity.

I read this in half a day. I give so much credit to the translator, though all the credit is due to Jacqueline Harpman for this beautiful, morose, bare, unique story. 

This is a story on an undefined war, humanity, and women surviving. It contemplates the meaning of life. It is plain in how it describes each step of survival, and we see through the eyes of a protagonist who is like a blank page - void of our version of the human experience. I rooted for her, and mourned for her. 

You'll love this if you like thought-provoking reads, darker stories about humanity, and the bond among women. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings