flow_bloom's reviews
11 reviews

Blue Period, Vol. 6 by Tsubasa Yamaguchi

inspiring fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

Blue Period, Vol. 5 by Tsubasa Yamaguchi

challenging inspiring reflective relaxing fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

Ayiti by Roxane Gay

challenging dark emotional hopeful inspiring sad tense

4.0

Ayiti is raw, unfiltered, and deeply honest. Roxane Gay doesn’t hold back in portraying the complexities of Haitian identity, migration, love, and survival. The stories are short but pack an emotional punch, offering a glimpse into lives shaped by struggle, resilience, and desire. I  appreciated how real and unapologetic it was in capturing these experiences. A powerful read for those who love bold, unvarnished storytelling.

skin & bones by Renée Watson

challenging emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring reflective relaxing sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Renée Watson delivers a beautifully raw and deeply felt story in "Skin & Bones". Through poetic and intentional prose, she explores self-image, family, grief, and the quiet resilience of young Black girls navigating the weight of the world. Set against the backdrop of Portland, the novel weaves in Black historical significance, shedding light on the often-overlooked stories of a community that has long shaped the city’s identity. The characters feel achingly real—flawed, tender, and searching for healing in places they least expect. This book is a gentle but powerful reminder of how art, love, and self-acceptance can help piece us back together. A must-read for those who appreciate introspective storytelling, emotional depth, and a rich cultural narrative.

Blue Period, Vol. 4 by Tsubasa Yamaguchi

adventurous challenging funny hopeful inspiring reflective relaxing fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You about Being Creative by Austin Kleon

informative inspiring medium-paced

5.0

Wash Day Diaries by Jamila Rowser

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

"Wash Day" is more than just a story about hair—it’s a celebration of sisterhood, self-care, and the small yet powerful ways Black women uplift one another. Jamila Rowser beautifully captures the nuances of friendship, solitude, and everyday resilience, while Robyn Smith’s vibrant illustrations bring each moment to life with warmth and authenticity. The characters feel real—layered, bold, and full of personality—making this graphic novel a true love letter to Black women and their rituals of care. A beautifully crafted, intimate glimpse into the connections that hold us together.

Blue Period, Vol. 3 by Tsubasa Yamaguchi

fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Blue Period, Vol. 2 by Tsubasa Yamaguchi

adventurous dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring mysterious reflective relaxing sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

Blue Period, Vol. 1 by Tsubasa Yamaguchi

adventurous emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective relaxing sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

"Blue Period" Vol. 1 is a gem of a find—one that speaks to anyone who has ever felt the pull of creativity but struggled with self-doubt and direction. Following Yatora’s journey from detached high schooler to aspiring artist, this story beautifully captures the thrill, frustration, and deep introspection that comes with discovering a passion for art. The way it blends technical insights with emotional storytelling makes it a standout, especially for those who love visual art. For me, this book reignited my love for reading and creativity, making it all the more special. A must-read for artists, dreamers, and anyone on the edge of taking that first leap into the unknown.