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mckayla_haesch's review against another edition
i have a huge issue when authours don't match a synopsis to what the story is actually about. i always will respect other peoples opinions and other peoples beliefs (it would be boring if we all believed the same thing), but when a book like this paints people and places and beliefs in such a bad light, i will automatically struggle to get through it.
i didn't find that the main character ever found what she was looking for, nor did any of the situations that occurred in the book give any substance to an already messy plot. needless to say, this wasn't a good one at all...on to the next
i didn't find that the main character ever found what she was looking for, nor did any of the situations that occurred in the book give any substance to an already messy plot. needless to say, this wasn't a good one at all...on to the next
cfh's review
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
4.0
caitlinnf's review
challenging
emotional
hopeful
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
utopiastateofmind's review
4.0
This coming of age story is incredibly emotional. My favorite part and the strongest feature of the book is Josie's character.
We can empathize with Josie, her guilt, her responsibility, and her sadness. She is intensely loyal, intelligent, and kind-hearted. It is unfair the things that are asked of her, and yet she preservers. The role reversal when a child is asked to keep their family's or parent's secrets is heart breaking. Josie's summer results not only in the uncovering of family secrets, but qualities she didn't know she had.
This novel brings us back to moments in our past. Josie reminds us of times we felt misunderstood, unfairly burdened, and alone.
Disclaimer: I was sent a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/review-existence-pity-jeannie-zokan/
We can empathize with Josie, her guilt, her responsibility, and her sadness. She is intensely loyal, intelligent, and kind-hearted. It is unfair the things that are asked of her, and yet she preservers. The role reversal when a child is asked to keep their family's or parent's secrets is heart breaking. Josie's summer results not only in the uncovering of family secrets, but qualities she didn't know she had.
This novel brings us back to moments in our past. Josie reminds us of times we felt misunderstood, unfairly burdened, and alone.
Disclaimer: I was sent a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/review-existence-pity-jeannie-zokan/
justmekendra's review
4.0
I really enjoyed this book!
Zokan hooked me from the start with a culture that is different from my own. It was unique to see a different perspective of the world. I haven't read about a missionary family of characters before, so it was cool to become wrapped up in their world.
The Existence of Pity brought a story filled with such beauty and it captivated me. Josie's character came alive, as well as everyone else in the story. The writing and descriptions had the ability for me to imagine I was there in the city with Josie, learning all I could about Colombia.
Zokan wrote an intriguing plot line and delivered on the premise. This is one book I feel many will like; the diversity of an American family settling into Colombia, and Colombia's culture itself is something pleasing to read.
Zokan hooked me from the start with a culture that is different from my own. It was unique to see a different perspective of the world. I haven't read about a missionary family of characters before, so it was cool to become wrapped up in their world.
The Existence of Pity brought a story filled with such beauty and it captivated me. Josie's character came alive, as well as everyone else in the story. The writing and descriptions had the ability for me to imagine I was there in the city with Josie, learning all I could about Colombia.
Zokan wrote an intriguing plot line and delivered on the premise. This is one book I feel many will like; the diversity of an American family settling into Colombia, and Colombia's culture itself is something pleasing to read.
nickimags's review
4.0
What a delightful read this was I'm so grateful that the author reached out to me to read and review it, as it was such fun. I really feel like I've been part of Josie Wales life this last weekend, hanging out with her, her family and friends in Colombia. I felt so many emotions reading this story as I laughed, tutted, gasped and almost shed a tear at the different situations Josie came up against. I'd love to know if there is a another part to Josie's story as the end of the book left me wanting to know how everything turned out.
I definitely recommend this if you enjoy YA or coming of age stories.
I definitely recommend this if you enjoy YA or coming of age stories.
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