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A review by krys_kilz
In Every Mirror She's Black by Lọlá Ákínmádé Åkerström
challenging
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
This book was incredibly engaging and I could not put it down. The characters are rich, complicated and multilayered. I thoroughly enjoyed engaging with their multiple perspectives, personalities, hopes and dreams. The characters disrupt the racist notion that Black women are a monolith. There is also a lot of visceral metaphor and imagery woven throughout.
I am still sitting with the ending, which was heartbreaking in so many ways. I am not a fan of happy, neatly wrapped up endings, so that's not something that bothers me. What I'm sitting with is what message the ending reveals along with its scathing critique of misogynoir and xenophobia. The entire novel does an incredible job of shattering the picture perfect image of Nordic countries we are often fed in the so called "united states."
I am still sitting with the ending, which was heartbreaking in so many ways. I am not a fan of happy, neatly wrapped up endings, so that's not something that bothers me. What I'm sitting with is what message the ending reveals along with its scathing critique of misogynoir and xenophobia. The entire novel does an incredible job of shattering the picture perfect image of Nordic countries we are often fed in the so called "united states."
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Misogyny, Racism, Suicide, Toxic relationship, Xenophobia, and Grief
Moderate: Cancer, Domestic abuse, Infidelity, Islamophobia, and Stalking
Minor: Drug use
If suicide is a trigger for you, I would advise taking great caution with this book.