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A review by astrid_dream
Tomorrow I Become a Woman by Aiwanose Odafen
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
1.25
This story was one I was constantly recommended. I am always skeptical of book recs, and in this case, I had every right to be.
The characters are very flat and dimensional. This is not for a lack of trying on the author's part; almost every character winds up changed by the end of the story. But each character is absolutely an archetype of themselves, with little room to grow beyond it.We have the stock 'abusive husband', 'African mother who was abused and continues the cycle', 'elders who side with the abusive husband', 'the liberated woman who moves overseas and returns' and of course, the 'first love' a.k.a 'the man the female protagonist would have married in another life'.
There is nothing wrong with simplifying characters, but everyone felt so bland and lifeless. For as much emphasis is placed on the role of women in African society, the book never really focuses on t much at all. There may be lines here and there, some pertinent quotes, but hardly anything more substantial than that.
Most of the plot development happens within the last few pages, leading to a feeling that the story was rushed. I did enjoy the open ending (even if I do suspect that things later went south).
I do not regret reading this story, but my goodness, it won't be revisited anytime soon.
The characters are very flat and dimensional. This is not for a lack of trying on the author's part; almost every character winds up changed by the end of the story. But each character is absolutely an archetype of themselves, with little room to grow beyond it.
There is nothing wrong with simplifying characters, but everyone felt so bland and lifeless. For as much emphasis is placed on the role of women in African society, the book never really focuses on t much at all. There may be lines here and there, some pertinent quotes, but hardly anything more substantial than that.
Most of the plot development happens within the last few pages, leading to a feeling that the story was rushed. I did enjoy the open ending (even if I do suspect that things later went south).
I do not regret reading this story, but my goodness, it won't be revisited anytime soon.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Domestic abuse, Sexism, Violence, and War
If you dislike characters that sit on their behinds and prattle off about various things --- congrats! This is the book for you.
If you enjoy reading books which focus on the dynamics of domestic abuse, you may find this book wanting in that aspect -- we never really leave the surface.