A review by bandysbooks
Grown Ups by Marie Aubert

challenging emotional reflective tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

I was recommended Grown Ups at a bookstore and it was sold to me as a lighthearted, hilarious, quick read. While it was a quick read, it was definitely not lighthearted or hilarious. 

My main issue with this book was the main character. She is borderline detestable, which can work when handled right. Unfortunately, I also could not relate, empathize, or connect with her or really anyone else in the book. The things that she says and does that are supposed to be quirky and funny really just come across as cruel and insensitive. I know that this was translated from Norwegian, so maybe something was lost in translation?

I will say that the actual writing quality was very good. The story flowed at a steady pace and it was a relatively quick read. The dialogue was handled well and there was enough description to create strong images. The emotional impact was there too. I definitely felt myself feeling discomfort at several points which means it provoked a reaction.

All in all, this want what I expected, but it wasn’t a bad read. If you enjoy difficult characters, messy family relationships, and character driven stories, you may enjoy this one. 

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