Reviews

Frying Plantain by Zalika Reid-Benta

Only show reviews with written explanations

annetjeberg's review against another edition

5.0

I really like the concept of short stories that follow the life of one person, and this is a beautiful example of that. Wonderful insights and quite relatable too.

Highly recommended

alaina11's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

3.5

clare_c's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

3.5
A quick and interesting read. A book comprised of Short stories that are interconnected and presented chronologically. The individual stories often end abruptly and detail Kara’s experiences as a Jamaican growing up in Canada.

imaima's review against another edition

Go to review page

reflective 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

3.5

shaeloef's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional funny lighthearted reflective fast-paced

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

4.0

kimuchi's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

Don’t read this and visit your therapist on the same day, unless you want to confront a dozen demons; all named Shame. It’s a great collection. Scenes between Kara’s mother and grandmother are gripping, and visceral.
I loved River Mumma much more, but liked this one a lot. Since this is a young writer’s debut, I’d say I’ll be on the lookout for her next release.

zellm's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

Super interesting and well written exploration of dysfunctional family relationships and the challenges of growing up between cultures. My only critique is that it felt like there was really no growth or change with the family members so it ended up feeling a little bleak.