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3.76 AVERAGE
3.76 AVERAGE
I appreciated the perspective this book offered on the covid pandemic. She was able to see it coming, see it making its way across the world.
I am not of the mindset that characters must be likable for a book to be any good, but I really wanted Joan to be at least a little likable. I wanted her to grow or change in some way. I wanted to root for her. There were moments of potential, like in reading one of the books her neighbor gave her, but nothing ever happened.
I enjoyed the writing style. Perhaps the “meaning” of the story went over my head.
I am not of the mindset that characters must be likable for a book to be any good, but I really wanted Joan to be at least a little likable. I wanted her to grow or change in some way. I wanted to root for her. There were moments of potential, like in reading one of the books her neighbor gave her, but nothing ever happened.
I enjoyed the writing style. Perhaps the “meaning” of the story went over my head.
joan is late 30s doctor in nyc. about her observations as chinese woman in america, her relationships at work, her neighbours, her rich brother, dead dad in china and mom. eventually connects to covid-19
challenging
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I didn't like the main character (very hard to relate to), I didn't like the plot (was it actually there?). What's the point of reading something like this? Guess I will never understand.
emotional
funny
reflective
relaxing
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
really nice book, shows the balances/sacrifices of working in a high prestige job, struggles of family and immigrants.
Worth reading just for the unique and frequently very funny voice! Lots about the pressures and expectations put on women and immigrants.
I think I would have gotten into this quicker had I not been listening on audio. Initially felt reminiscent of “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” but quickly diverged into a unique and compelling voice that grappled with grief, culture and community.
literally could not put this book down after the first page. incredible prose and so many things i could relate to. so unapologetically real and beautiful. thank you for this book weike.
emotional
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexism, Medical content, Pandemic/Epidemic
Moderate: Death, Grief, Death of parent
Minor: Cursing, Racial slurs, Racism, Xenophobia, Alcohol, Classism