Reviews

more like 3.5 because even though the writing style is a lil too slow for me, the themes were powerful and ocean's writing is simply beautiful with profound metaphors and a voice that is so unique

shannon_griffiths95's review against another edition

Go to review page

challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense medium-paced

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

5.0

vbones's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

Half the time I was confused the other half I was reading the most gorgeous quotes of all time

A win is a win

marcird's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

So it turns out Roxanne Gay wrote my book review for me on this one so head over and read hers. Yes Vuong is an insanely beautiful writer but I REALLY struggle with a book that doesn’t seem to be anchored to an actual story. I lose interest, disconnect from the characters. I’m less moved by his insanely exquisite sentences because in my mind I’m asking - what is it he is actually talking about, where have we been, where are we going? I pushed through and finished the book more out of a commitment to finish a book that’s different from my typical go-to’s and because it was a challenge. Not a great sign when you’re relieved a book is over. Perhaps those with masters in creative writing are the ones who can truly appreciate what he created here. But this book ultimately lands in the category - not really for me.

allyg3's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional reflective sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character

3.0

More...