A review by jennyreadssometimes
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

challenging dark reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Uncomfortable read (I was warned!), but I'd say 100% worth it IMO.

Quickly developed into a page turner for me; I don't agree with the people who say it's tough to get into but maybe because I was anticipating for things to get dark, I kinda stormed ahead. I loved getting to know the characters, fell in love with Jude and Willem, then quickly had my heart ripped out. :)

I had a weird cathartic feeling while reading that felt like ripping a big plaster off all the things in my own life that have been painful. It definitely implored me to think about my own life, and I've found myself wanting to make better choices with the bigger picture in mind after reading. I feel like no books that I've read before have really done that.

I didn't get as physically sad as I thought I might, welled up a few times but no sobbing or bawling like some people experience. But the entire thing provokes a very visceral reaction and I literally could not stop thinking about the characters as though they were my real life long friends. I'd prepare yourself if you wanna read this book, and go in with an open mind. It. Gets. DARK. And there are lots of things that could be triggering to people in lots of different ways. But I am glad I read it and will probably reread one day.
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