Reviews

Vijf levens by Jenny Tinghui Zhang

staceyjunemsw's review against another edition

challenging emotional informative sad tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This is such a sad book - beautifully written but a tragic truth to be acknowledged.

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Murder, Sexual violence, and Xenophobia

avidreadr's review against another edition

5.0

For being a debut, 5 stars!!!! I’d say personally more 4/4.5 after an ambiguous ending though. This story had many unique aspects, including a linguistic element as well as a slightly surreal element. The MC was well drawn with a strong voice. I would definitely read more from this author and was really moved by many passages.

ysam_moosemelk's review against another edition

challenging dark emotional sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.75

sarah0554's review against another edition

challenging dark emotional sad tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes

2.75

mcgovnhm's review against another edition

4.0

A deeply saddening but beautiful story. I would recommend to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.

bethanynewell's review against another edition

challenging emotional hopeful sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

balberry's review against another edition

adventurous challenging dark emotional inspiring reflective sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

This one is an unforgettable journey across the Pacific Ocean, weaving together the lives of characters grappling with adversity and resilience. Set in China and America, the story follows Daiyu, a girl whose experiences span continents and cultures. Zhang's vivid descriptions bring her to life, I was immersed in the beauty and brutality of her world. The pacing is perfect, balancing moments of tension with periods of reflection. As Daiyu navigates the challenges of discrimination and displacement, I felt her triumphs and tribulations with her. This is a story of strength and perseverance in the face of adversity. Through Daiyu's journey, she faces themes of racism, identity, and the enduring power of the human spirit. The characters are intricately drawn and deeply human, each one with hopes, fears, and aspirations. From Daiyu herself to the supporting cast, every character feels fully realized. It is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of history, heritage, and the universal quest for belonging. It made me feel proud and shamed in the same breath and is such an essential read.

julieafanderson's review against another edition

sad

• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.75

mako_todo's review against another edition

dark emotional reflective sad tense medium-paced

4.25

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Sexual assault, Kidnapping, and Racial slurs

akane_readsyt's review against another edition

adventurous dark emotional inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75