A review by kellyhook_readsbooks
Mika in Real Life by Emiko Jean
4.0
MIKA IN REAL LIFE is a #ownvoices contemporary fiction story that has emotional depth with a sweet side of romance.
The story follows Mika after she gives up her daughter Penny for adoption after an unexpected pregnancy. 16 years later Mika’s life looks nothing like the life she once dreamed of. When Penny and her widowed father reach out to connect with Mika she attempts to create an impressive life, even if it is all an illusion.
The story explored themes of complicated mother-daughter relationships, moving forward after sexual assault, and grieving what could of been in a thoughtful way. I like how Emiko Jean captured the nuances of adoption and addressed aspects specific to transracial adoption. The author’s #ownvoices perspective brought to life aspects of Japanese culture that I found so interesting.
I found the characters to be flawed but endearing and enjoyed watching them grow. Pick up MIKA IN REAL LIFE for a quick, yet thought-provoking read.
RATING: 4/5
PUB DATE: August 9, 2022
Thank you to William Morrow, NetGalley, and Thoughts from A Page Podcast for providing me with an electronic ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows Mika after she gives up her daughter Penny for adoption after an unexpected pregnancy. 16 years later Mika’s life looks nothing like the life she once dreamed of. When Penny and her widowed father reach out to connect with Mika she attempts to create an impressive life, even if it is all an illusion.
The story explored themes of complicated mother-daughter relationships, moving forward after sexual assault, and grieving what could of been in a thoughtful way. I like how Emiko Jean captured the nuances of adoption and addressed aspects specific to transracial adoption. The author’s #ownvoices perspective brought to life aspects of Japanese culture that I found so interesting.
I found the characters to be flawed but endearing and enjoyed watching them grow. Pick up MIKA IN REAL LIFE for a quick, yet thought-provoking read.
RATING: 4/5
PUB DATE: August 9, 2022
Thank you to William Morrow, NetGalley, and Thoughts from A Page Podcast for providing me with an electronic ARC in exchange for an honest review.