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fitzbff's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
This is one of those rare books where I don't really know what to say about it. I had to read this for uni, wasn't expecting a whole lot, but as I was reading I found myself more and more entranced by this novel. We follow an elderly Korean man, adopted by a Japanese family, who now lives in a suburban American town. He remembers and narrates his experiences both in the war and as a father. Throughout this interesting non-linear telling, we see how his attitude towards his daughter was shaped by his hard experiences in the war, and how these experiences still affect him to this day. It's a fascinating and rich character study, not willing to forgive anyone of wrongs they've committed, but also deeply human and empathic. The novel toes this line quite skilfully, as it paints a holistic picture of our protagonist, leaving the reader to deliver any judgement. A must-read for any character-driven readers.
Graphic: Abortion, Death, Sexual assault, and Sexual violence
Minor: Sexism
homewithyou's review against another edition
dark
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
3.5 stars
Graphic: Abortion, Rape, Sexual violence, Trafficking, Violence, and War
Moderate: Death, Gun violence, Addiction, Blood, Car accident, Chronic illness, Colonisation, Gore, and Racism
Minor: Sexual assault, Suicidal thoughts, Medical content, Murder, Racial slurs, and Sexism
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