Reviews with content warning for Sexual content - Stories from the Tenants Downstairs

Like any collection of stories, some of these I liked more than others, but what I found really compelling is how effectively these fictional accounts show the good, the bad and the ugly when it comes to low-income/subsidized housing in America. In particular, how easy it is for the system to work against you or how one expense or incident can have catastrophic effects on a basic need. The audiobook cast in this is also excellent, it's almost like listening to a podcast series it feels so immersive and personal.

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kimveach's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective sad tense medium-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

4.0

I don't know how to review this. It was vivid, raw, and disturbing. So I didn't "like" it, but I'm glad I listened to it. If you want to understand how privileged you are, this book will help. It's a series of monologs - better to listen to than read.

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badmom's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful informative reflective sad tense fast-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

4.5

Intriguing set of vignettes centered on people living in/associated with a Harlem apartment building targeted for gentrification. The characters’ flaws are highlighted but with loving care; they struggle because they’re at the mercy of a racist & classist system.

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