Reviews

I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman

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_ali_lacey44's review

4.0

I’m very glad I read this book. It reminds me to appreciate everything I have because an existence without relationships and love is one devoid of meaning. Time is an important factor in this book and it makes me want to use mine in the best way I can.

3mily3m's review

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challenging mysterious reflective sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

Thought provoking

lynds_dewey's review against another edition

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5.0

It's rare to find a perfect book, but I feel like this fits the bill. It's the right length, it's enticing the entire way through, it's light-hearted but also deep and thought provoking. Such an interesting read that I will keep going back to for a long time. The perfect book club book.

lika7m's review

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adventurous challenging mysterious reflective fast-paced

5.0

missfiorella's review

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Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No

4.25

salmaisreadingbooks's review

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emotional sad

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes

5.0

This was my first book on my reading journey as an adult, and what a way to start! The story is thought-provoking and haunting in the best way possible. It explores profound themes like identity, isolation, and freedom. What’s interesting is how complicated freedom can be. There's a quote from the narrator that really sticks with me: "I was free, but it was the most terrible kind of freedom, the kind that made you wonder whether it wouldn't be better to be back in the cage."This book left me staring at the wall, questioning everything—like what truly makes us human and how deeply society shapes our identities and choices. It also makes you appreciate everything you have in life because the young girl is so content with the smallest things and doesn’t take anything for granted. It’s definitely the kind of read that stays with you long after you finish.