Reviews

In the Time of Our History by Susanne Pari

newlybookish24's review against another edition

4.0

“In the Time of Our History" delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics and the lingering impact of loss. Set against the backdrop of an Iranian-American heritage, the narrative follows Mitra Jahani's return home after her sister's tragic death. Parin skillfully navigates through the perspectives of multiple characters, offering readers a vast range of emotions and motivations.

The Jahani family's struggles with identity, tradition, and personal autonomy are portrayed with depth and authenticity. Mitra's rebellion against her father's expectations and the strained relationships within the family create a palpable tension that drives the story forward. Parin's writing is both evocative and poignant, capturing the nuances of cultural heritage and familial bonds with sensitivity. Through intricate storytelling, she invites readers to ponder the complexities of love, loss, and forgiveness. "In the Time of Our History" is a captivating exploration of the human experience, leaving a lasting impression on those who venture into its pages.

carroll79's review against another edition

inspiring reflective medium-paced

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

5.0

heytheresunflower's review against another edition

emotional hopeful informative reflective medium-paced

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

3.0

cboll's review against another edition

slow-paced

4.0

bdwerner's review against another edition

3.0

I've noticed a theme over the past few years of generational trauma, and while this wasn't the best iteration of that theme, it was still very well written and I'm glad a read it.

jomich97's review against another edition

adventurous challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced

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

4.75

traveldreams's review against another edition

emotional informative reflective slow-paced

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

4.0

emilytaylorvd's review against another edition

dark emotional reflective sad fast-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? Yes

4.5

quackquackbich's review against another edition

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective tense

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

4.25

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Death and Grief

Minor: Sexual assault

mbejjani's review against another edition

emotional hopeful informative reflective medium-paced

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

4.25

A compelling narrative across generations and countries, this book delves deep into family relationships while firmly rooting the story in the political and cultural context that is crucial to understanding those relationships. I learned a lot about Iranian culture and history, without feeling like I was getting a history lesson.