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I really struggled as to how to rate this book. The only reason I read it was to fulfill a book challenge requirement of "read a bestseller from a genre you do not normally read". I am just not a short story fan. For me, the majority of the stories didn't make much sense or were just too boring to really follow. That being said, there were two or three in the collection that I enjoyed. So maybe this would be a win for fans of short stories? I am not the right person to judge I guess.

Beautiful and surreal. I loved these short stories and the way they intertwine. I love Oyeyemi's writing style and the way her words draw me in. I got this book from my University's library, and I definitely need my own copy. I can't say enough good things about this book. Helen Oyeyemi is one of my favorite authors of all time, and this book is a prime example of why I love her.
katsu's profile picture

katsu's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH

dnf. did not like the translation! should probably read it in english
medium-paced

I know if I think about it there's something really cool happening here with these characters and these stories and the keys but I don't want to think. it's simmering underneath the surface but you can't quite see it. 

An enchanting collection of short stories. Loved it!

Weird as hell, I loved it.

I don't usually finish books of short stories but I did finish this one. So that's saying something. There were a few stories I liked a lot. But as a whole collection, it was only okay for me.
emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective relaxing slow-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: Yes

This is a weird one.

WOW. WOW. WOW. Oyeyemi is an incredibly talented writer. READ THIS. READ THIS. READ THIS.