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franzis_buecher's review against another edition
4.0
I saw the movie adaptation a few years ago and it was interesting to see some plot points resurface in my memory as I read the book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism
Moderate: Sexism, Violence, Domestic abuse, Misogyny, Rape, Antisemitism, Homophobia, and Death of parent
bperl's review against another edition
2.0
A toxic dump of racism, profanity, and graphic sexual content veneered by a decent story and superb writing. Baldwin has serious chops, so it’s saddening to see this monstrosity emerge from the pages.
Give this one a miss and go read something worthwhile.
Give this one a miss and go read something worthwhile.
spiritlesscatalyst's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-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? No
5.0
manderly's review against another edition
4.0
For such a sad book it was strangely optimistic
…
That’s not the right thing to say; it being optimistic wasn’t strange at all
…
That’s not the right thing to say; it being optimistic wasn’t strange at all
dylansb's review against another edition
challenging
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.75
nolemdaer's review against another edition
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
I feel kind of weird not rating this 4 stars, but I didn't enjoy the story very much, even if the novel itself was high quality. The characters were sketched well and the individual interaction with the racist carceral state was done quietly but powerfully. There's hope and uncertainty - which often makes the hope even more potent - and a look into genuine, deep young love. Quality writing and meaningful content, but since it was so short it was more a snapshot of sorrow (and strength).