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challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Oh man this was a bit of a slog with a bit of an unsatisfying ending. Really tried to do the multigenerational trauma and defiantly hit it in some ways but for me this book just feel a little flat. I wouldn't say it wasnt' worth reading, but I think this is going to go in the back of my head and I think I'll forget about it.
I enjoyed the perspectives of the mother and daughter in this touching tale. Their misunderstandings and their compassion for each other felt realistic, and I could identify in particular with the daughter, Ruth. I always enjoy learning more about Chinese culture and reading stories of Chinese Americans. This book includes cultural information by weaving it into the story, rather than reading like a dry, historical account. The main focus is always on the relationships between the characters and on Ruth's attempts to understand her family's past and what it means to her.
emotional
hopeful
informative
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
The first part of the book is slow. Almost a slog. I’m SO happy I persevered as the second and later parts (that recall the memories from China) and the ending are awesome. It’s like it was 2 separate books.
Moderate: Suicide, Suicide attempt
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
slow-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:
Complicated
Graphic: Self harm, Suicide, Death of parent, Fire/Fire injury, Abandonment
Moderate: Child abuse, Drug use, Murder, War
Minor: Child death, Racial slurs