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I was able to connect with the characters in the beginning of the book, but towards the end I wasn't sure about their identities. Like what's their deal in life, therefore I found myself unattached. The storyline jumps around alot and leaves many unanswered questions in it's wake. Not much is explained, which normally I love but this left me with so many questions. Having read magical realism before this book seem to be lacking.
I did however devour the book in one sitting as I searched for answers. The magical realism is not too shabby and the world of Drihástrana was one of my favorite parts of the book. Harriet Lee was a interesting character for me because her storyline was far more developed than other characters. Overall the book is a solid read just lacking in some areas. Enjoy, if you wish!
I did however devour the book in one sitting as I searched for answers. The magical realism is not too shabby and the world of Drihástrana was one of my favorite parts of the book. Harriet Lee was a interesting character for me because her storyline was far more developed than other characters. Overall the book is a solid read just lacking in some areas. Enjoy, if you wish!
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
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:
Yes
slow-paced
Loveable characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Gingerbread by Helen Oyeyemi asks the question of what if gingerbread was more than just a delicious thing to eat?
Harriet and her daughter Perdita have a knack with gingerbread that seems to make people do what they want.
This is a mix of fantasy and fairytales, along with some family drama.
I liked the mix with fantasy and personal discovery, with the jump between the past and present.
Gingerbread was published on 5th March 2020, and is available from Amazon, Waterstones and Bookshop.org.
I'm afraid I couldn't find any links for you to follow Helen Oyeyemi!
I was given this book in exchange for an unbiased review, so my thanks to NetGalley and to Pan Macmillan.
Harriet and her daughter Perdita have a knack with gingerbread that seems to make people do what they want.
This is a mix of fantasy and fairytales, along with some family drama.
I liked the mix with fantasy and personal discovery, with the jump between the past and present.
Gingerbread was published on 5th March 2020, and is available from Amazon, Waterstones and Bookshop.org.
I'm afraid I couldn't find any links for you to follow Helen Oyeyemi!
I was given this book in exchange for an unbiased review, so my thanks to NetGalley and to Pan Macmillan.
This is one of the weirdest things I’ve ever read. Not unpleasant, but confusing and with a lot going on.
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
It's me, not you. Really I think I wasn't familiar enough with the story of the Gingerbread Man to get the parallels between this story and that tale. With Oyeyemi's previous book I could see the parallel lines between her story and Snow White's. I couldn't see it here beyond Gingerbread.
So many subtexts going on too, and the disquieting underlying violence and disdain.
That said I read it fast and wanted to see the outcome, but still.
So many subtexts going on too, and the disquieting underlying violence and disdain.
That said I read it fast and wanted to see the outcome, but still.
The writing is gorgeous, the characters so well-drawn, laugh out loud funny. At heart this book is about motherhood, family, and friendships that endure, but you have to be willing to believe in fairy tales; you have to be willing to take the ride. If you are, you will get so much out of this book. If, like me, you are not you will still marvel at the lovely writing and feel the spirit of the book. Honestly, worth reading for the first few unforgettable pages alone.
Recommended for readers who like a challenge or who love modern fairy tales.
Recommended for readers who like a challenge or who love modern fairy tales.