3.74 AVERAGE


the destiny line had me in a chokehold 

Sometimes you want to read a book that knows how to throw a little disco into the mix.
challenging dark emotional funny tense slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
challenging dark emotional funny reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
challenging dark emotional funny slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

Honest and raw portrayal of Filipino youth growing up in Hawai'i

I kept thinking "oh shit," "hot damn that's scandalous," and "snap they /went/ there" while reading this novel, and I think that pretty much sums up what I think about it haha.

I think this book would benefit from a second read, as I felt the narratives fragmenting tended to lean more on the confusing side than the falling together side. (If that even makes sense.) I still appreciate the book for what it brings to the table and think this would be amazing to read in a group setting.

five stars for remixing america, unmatched character depiction, and relentless humor

The usage and focus on children throughout the novel was eye-opening and revealing to the development of sexuality and "American" identity. The utilization of multiple forms of writing, i.e. poems, dialogue, scene writing, is a show of Linmark talent and range as a writer.

Very interesting, chaotic yet fun read. The Pidgin English can sometimes be challenging to follow if you have not been part of that culture but I think that is what adds to the fun of it. Just like the characters in the book, the structure of chapters, etc. were all over the map. I think it captured what it might be like in a tween's mind, with all of the hormones raging and their exploration of sexuality.