A review by hellokaley
I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman

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

4.25

This dystopian science fiction read is quite different than my usual reads, but I was fascinated the whole time. This is my first translated work and it was written in the 90s. This coming of age story is dark, sad, and mysterious. 

I enjoyed the story and the mystery of it all, but I understand if some readers feel unsatisfied. It really feels like a book worthy of discussion and I think many will have interesting and different perspectives. I really liked the Afterward which provided perspective on the overall story and characters. 

This one isn’t going to be for everyone, but there is a group of readers who really love it. Personally, the story will stay with me for a long time.

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