Reviews tagging 'Bullying'

Greek Lessons by Han Kang

2 reviews

linguaphile412's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful 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

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savvylit's review against another edition

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emotional reflective sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

Greek Lessons contains many absolutely beautiful passages about language and expression. Like in her other work, Han Kang has excelled at creating characters whose sorrow is palpable and heart-wrenching.

Despite the beauty of the writing and the characters, though, I found it difficult to stay connected with this story. The dual perspective was sometimes confusing. Several times, I had to stop my reading and flip backwards to confirm which character was the focus of a particular section. Furthermore, the connection between the two characters was ultimately minimal. Other than in classes (where they don't communicate), it's not until the very end of Greek Lessons that they have an opportunity to connect in a way that transcends spoken language.

Ultimately, I was disappointed by this novel because I wanted much more from it. Every other Han Kang book that I have read has become an all-time favorite. Perhaps my expectations for Greek Lessons were just too high?

Thank you @netgalley and @hogarthbooks for the advanced reader copy of Greek Lessons in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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