A review by kays_reading_journal
Constellations by Kate Glasheen

challenging dark reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

3.25⭐️
For starters: this book is heavy, check the content warnings below. 
CW: Addiction, Alcoholism, Homophobia, Transphobia, Child Abuse, Death
This is a story about addiction with a subplot about gender identity- NOT the other way around. With that out of the way, after part 1, I enjoyed this graphic novel. This novel brought up a lot of great conversations about addiction, grief, moving on, and figuring out who you are. There were a lot of great themes and lessons in this and I really enjoyed the character Charlie. 
Onto the things I didn’t love: Part 1 just felt odd. I think if it was labeled as a prologue, it would make more sense. At that point, the MC is sort of treating their trauma as a joke for a coping mechanism, so the style is exaggerated. I know a lot of people don’t like dark humor as a coping mechanism, so I just wanted to point that out. 
The pacing of this novel could be improved. I think if it was lengthened, the time in rehab could be expanded upon, as well as the time after. The after is just really rushed right now, it felt like the conclusion came too soon. 
Overall, if you’re in the right headspace to read a heavy book about addiction and self-discovery, this book will be great. If you if you aren’t in a great headspace, you may enjoy something lighter. 
I received an eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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