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proudtobeabookaholic's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
informative
reflective
sad
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
5.0
When Austin is 14 years old her mother dies in childbirth. With six younger siblings and a father who sometimes falls victim to his own personal darkness, it's Austin who has to become the adult in the house. The family tobacco farm also needs tending and she's not sure how long she will be able to keep up. But when help is offered Austin is still reluctant to accept it, because it will mean the truth she's been working so hard to hide will be revealed.
I've been wanting to read this book since it was released in Swedish and I first heard about it. When it was my time to choose a book for my book club I took my chance! It's been compared to "Where the Crawdads Sing", and although there are differences, there are also similarities, and I believe if you liked the former you will like this as well.
"Under the Magnolias" is a gripping childhood upbringing about losing both your parents: one suddenly and unexpectedly in childbirth and the other slowly in mental illness. But we also get sibling love, friendship and tentative love. Wonderful side characters who make a lasting impression. How hard it can be to ask for help, but also how much easier life can become if you dare to accept it.
The book is set in the American south during the 80's, and perfectly narrated by Susan Bennett. The author describes the environment in a way that makes you BE there, with the characters. She makes you feel with and for the characters, and it's an emotional book in many ways. I really look forward to discussing the book with my book club next week!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Grief, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide attempt, and Death of parent
cassiereadsbooks_'s review
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
medium-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? No
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Injury/Injury detail, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide attempt, Mental illness, Death of parent, Self harm, and Panic attacks/disorders
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