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4.15 AVERAGE
4.15 AVERAGE
Pros: a good way to learn an overview about that period of history. Cons: it reinforced stereotypes of white saviours and US imperialism without any redeeming features. Maybe no redemption is present because it's the truth, but it does make for a bleak reckoning.
challenging
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
i’ve accidentally deleted two full reviews on this book so let’s summarize, in no particular order: in nearly 500 pages, barbara kingsolver creates exactly two bearable narrators out of five options, writes every black character as a teacher of morals to the missionary price family, and “cures” disability to show that yes, disabled people can also be privileged. good job, everyone. we’ve really outdone ourselves.
slow-paced
Loveable characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I feel like this book should count as several books. A long and punishing read.
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
dark
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Tragic and difficult to read at times. On top of such a compelling story, Kingsolver is a beautiful writer, offering rich descriptions of both the characters and the world around them. Not quite a 5 given some of the slower paced sections.
When I was in high school we were assigned to read this book. Of course I didn't read it. I wish I could go back in time and have discussions and write papers and learn every single thing about this book. It was a challenging read and it took a long time. But I love this book so much. It is such a deep book with amazing imagery. The character development is outstanding. It's beautiful and complex and messy. No character is good or bad. The characters are flawed and it's lovely. It's so raw and real. I think it also is important to look at missionary work and what it actually is. The characters naively go into a foreign place and they think they are better than everybody else there. I was definitely transported. I don't know how I will talk this book for a while.
Not many authors can write like this. The writing is poetic in places. And its setting in a specific time in history shines a light on just one of the many terrible things the west has done to Africa. There are unforgettable cinematic scenes in this book that will give you goosebumps.
adventurous
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes