A review by podanotherjessi
10 Minutes 38 Seconds in this Strange World by Elif Shafak

challenging emotional funny medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

I really liked this book, but it's a confusing one to really wrap myself around my feelings. The first half is very different from the second half, in tone, style, and plot. And while I really enjoyed both (although the latter half a little less than the first half), I enjoyed them in very different ways.
The first half is much more melancholic and reflective, sad but still hopeful. The second half is still sad, but there's also a lot of humor to it. I think you need to expect that turn and prepare yourself for it. Otherwise, it's a little jarring, and it takes time to adjust.
But the characters in this book are incredible. I loved them all by the end of the book, if not much sooner.