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4.06 AVERAGE
4.06 AVERAGE
The plot line kept my interest, with short stanzas of narrative, interrupted by catchy titles. Hopkins once again does a very creative job with her narrative structure. However, the basic premise of the book disturbed me. Hopkins' portrays LDS culture inaccurately. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints does not condone a male-dominated religion. It is especially critical of men that abuse a wife or children. Mormon bishops are expected to report abuse to the proper authorities, not hide abuse to protect men. There may be exceptions to the above, but they are exceptions, not rules. When a book is based on a false premise that is so glaring, the creative merits of a book sink into the background. I hope Hopkins' does better research for future books.
I liked the narrator/reader, but I didn't realize until reading other reviews that it was written in verse, that's not evident in the audio version. The ending left a lot unanswered, and the bad guys seem to win because almost everyone good dies. After discussing with a co-worker, I understand that that's life, there's not always a happy ending, with everything buttoned up in a nice package, so I guess I can see the ending as acceptable, even though it was frustrating and unhappy.
This is the second of Hopkin's books I've read. Both show beautiful writing followed up with disappointing, hurried and somewhat cliché endings. I'm hoping it's just a fluke but I'm only going to give her one more chance with "Tilt". At least her books read fast.
The book was excellent, up until she got home from summer vacation, then it went downhill. I wouldn't suggest reading.
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Domestic abuse, Violence, Religious bigotry
Minor: Child death, Homophobia
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
really liked the book while I read it, but as soon as I finsihed it and I had a change to really digest it.. I couldn’t help but feel disappointed. I love ellen hopkins and think she is incredibly talented! this book could’ve been amazing!! the ending just felt predictable.
adventurous
dark
emotional
informative
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Are you not easily offended by stereotypical and incorrect information regarding Mormonism? You love verse style writing? Nothing pleases you more than falling in love with a story only to have your heart ripped out, stomped on, and then torn into itsy bitsy pieces? Then this book may be for you. It's important to know that this book was beautifully written and I devoured it. I gave it one star because I had a difficult time dealing with all the horrific events and the ending made me throw the book across the room. If you're looking for a nice read, happy ending, or something to make you smile--- DO NOT READ THIS BOOK.