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empathephant's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
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? No
4.0
Small thematic spoilers, no major plot spoilers:
Seanan's depiction of childhood is spot on, and beautiful in a horrid sort of way. I reflected on the cruelty of playground politics, the secret wishes I hoped for as a child, and the ways I attempted to change myself to fit in people's boxes. I love the character of Reagan and the way she grows and frees herself from the shackles of destiny–or really just others' expectations.
The intersex representation is refreshing. I love when queer characters are allowed to just be and the story does not center on their queerness, though in this case the book manages to be educational and include an important scene about discovering identity, while still letting her go off and have adventures and have an identity that has more personality traits than just "oppressed queer person."
Literary structure of ending is mentioned:
<spolier>
The twist ending was unexpected and awesome. I loved the social commentary that could be discussed after reading the end.
Seanan's depiction of childhood is spot on, and beautiful in a horrid sort of way. I reflected on the cruelty of playground politics, the secret wishes I hoped for as a child, and the ways I attempted to change myself to fit in people's boxes. I love the character of Reagan and the way she grows and frees herself from the shackles of destiny–or really just others' expectations.
The intersex representation is refreshing. I love when queer characters are allowed to just be and the story does not center on their queerness, though in this case the book manages to be educational and include an important scene about discovering identity, while still letting her go off and have adventures and have an identity that has more personality traits than just "oppressed queer person."
Literary structure of ending is mentioned:
<spolier>
The twist ending was unexpected and awesome. I loved the social commentary that could be discussed after reading the end.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Toxic friendship and Bullying
Moderate: Kidnapping, Confinement, Murder, Homophobia, Transphobia, and Body shaming
Minor: Terminal illness
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