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gabrielle_erin's review
3.0
Although short, this story packed a punch. I do think Shriver could have unpacked the huge issues he delves into more, but perhaps the odd allure of this story lies in its rushed narration and abrupt conclusion. The protagonist of the story is a deeply complex character, developed through such nuanced interactions that it was really hard not to sympathise with him in the end, despite his unlikeable facade. A really interesting insight into what we value as "life" and who gets to gatekeep this.
onucfs's review
3.5
Thought-provoking with themes of love, what it means to be alive, and criticism of pro-lifers. My only complaint is that the book isn't long enough to discuss these topics with nuance & there's no time to really get attached to the characters.
dear6hla's review
dark
funny
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
readingfromfrance's review
4.0
I actually really really liked it.
Too bad it's a (very) short story.
I need more.
Too bad it's a (very) short story.
I need more.
fennyisreding's review
2.0
I think that the author has oversimplified the whole issue that the main character is going through. I guess a short story is a short story. Nothing compelling actually. Serves a good bed time story, I reckon.
weewaw2020's review
2.0
For a book about such a difficult topic, it lacked depth and intensity and I honestly can’t remember much about it despite having just finished it. Meh.