Reviews

Passing by Nella Larsen

omg__gigi's review against another edition

adventurous emotional informative lighthearted reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Set in the Harlem Renaissance, the novel centers around two light-skinned African American women, Clare Kendry and Irene Redfield, who navigate the intricate dynamics of racial identity and societal expectations. Larsen's narrative is rich with emotional depth and psychological nuance. Irene, who chooses to live as a Black woman, represents a deep sense of community and familial loyalty. In contrast, Clare, who "passes" for white, embodies the allure and peril of escaping one’s racial identity. This dichotomy raises essential questions about the nature of identity and the sacrifices individuals make in pursuit of acceptance and privilege. Larsen's work is not only a commentary on race but also an examination of gender and sexuality, as the characters navigate their relationships within a patriarchal society. The themes of jealousy, desire, and betrayal resonate deeply, making "Passing" a timeless piece that speaks to the complexities of human relationships.

imenesaid's review against another edition

3.0

Maybe It is because I am not American and though the racial aspect of the story is too remote. Or maybe it is the tone...not sure why but I couldn't connect to the story

teresatumminello's review against another edition

5.0

I read Passing in this edition and posted a review here. I’m adding this to my account since I reread Passing the very next night (though not [b:Quicksand|78257|Quicksand|Nella Larsen|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1386924645l/78257._SY75_.jpg|27633]).

rarasreads's review against another edition

reflective sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

claireagrace's review against another edition

4.0

read this for school but a very good read

sylvivresavie's review against another edition

dark reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

hannahrose23's review against another edition

emotional mysterious reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

tommeyer3's review against another edition

dark emotional reflective fast-paced

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

4.5

Beautifully paced, perfectly small in plot and big in ideas.

justjordie's review against another edition

fast-paced

4.5

I think this book touched on how racial constructs within our society don’t allow for mixed-race folks to fully “fit-in” to one group. The main characters were both a little insufferable. Quick, easy read.  

scottishbanana's review against another edition

challenging dark emotional medium-paced

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

4.0