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mikarala's review
challenging
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.5
I found the subject of this novel fascinating. Although there are various heavy themes and topics including grief, child loss, and PTSD, my main takeaway was how the story portrayed the rapid industrial and economic growth of South Korea through the generational divide between our MC and her father who came of age during the Korean War. Hon's father, and many of others of his generation, are portrayed as having sacrificed so much for the sake of their country and future generations, only to be left behind as Korea rapidly modernized and the countryside emptied out as young people fled to cities. I find that subject super fascinating, and I think the fact that this book was mainly set during a time when our MC, Hon, is spending time with her father and realizes he likely doesn't have much time left to live, is a really intriguing narrative choice.
Unfortunately, I didn't personally feel the novel capitalized well on the fascinating concept. For me it was far too meandering, being told in a series of vaguely connected vignettes. I struggled to get through the story as I just wasn't all that invested, and either the original story or the translation made it confusing to me who was actually narrating at times, which I found frustrating. However, like I said, I did appreciate some of the ideas this novel explored, and if those themes are ones that interest you as well, you might like this story.
Unfortunately, I didn't personally feel the novel capitalized well on the fascinating concept. For me it was far too meandering, being told in a series of vaguely connected vignettes. I struggled to get through the story as I just wasn't all that invested, and either the original story or the translation made it confusing to me who was actually narrating at times, which I found frustrating. However, like I said, I did appreciate some of the ideas this novel explored, and if those themes are ones that interest you as well, you might like this story.
Content Warnings
Moderate: War
Minor: Child death
catandherbooks's review
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness
Minor: Child death
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