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kjseil92's review
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
It took me several chapters to get used to the cadence of the book and the shorter chapters that were used almost as transitional sections. But once I found the rhythm, I was able to better connect with the characters and was able to travel along the story's journey. This is not what I would consider a light read and has a lot of heavy content but still compelling. It points out how generational trauma can manifest without even realizing. All the missing links come together in the end and it wraps up really well.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Abandonment, Rape, Death of parent, and Grief
Minor: Suicidal thoughts, Murder, Physical abuse, Racism, and Injury/Injury detail
jmbibliophile's review
emotional
reflective
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
5.0
Black Cake is a compelling story about family, personal identity, and adversity. Eleanor's story is heartbreaking, but her strength and perseverance despite it all is incredibly inspiring.
I love how Wilkerson was able to make something as innocuous as black cake into something so impactful. The cake was an important part of Eleanor's childhood and was the only thing she felt she could share about her life with her loved ones. Black cake is also a symbol for diaspora, which was an important element of each character's identity.
The writing was thoughtful and beautiful. I enjoyed the use of multiple perspectives, which allowed us to intimately understand each character.
I was also pleased that Wilkerson wrapped up the story by filling in the remaining gaps in Eleanor's past. It was nice to get the full picture and not be left to assume.
Overall, this book was excellent, and I absolutely recommend it.
I love how Wilkerson was able to make something as innocuous as black cake into something so impactful. The cake was an important part of Eleanor's childhood and was the only thing she felt she could share about her life with her loved ones. Black cake is also a symbol for diaspora, which was an important element of each character's identity.
The writing was thoughtful and beautiful. I enjoyed the use of multiple perspectives, which allowed us to intimately understand each character.
I was also pleased that Wilkerson wrapped up the story by filling in the remaining gaps in Eleanor's past. It was nice to get the full picture and not be left to assume.
Overall, this book was excellent, and I absolutely recommend it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Racism, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Biphobia and Abandonment
Minor: Death, Sexual assault, and Suicide attempt
carolinebrooks's review
challenging
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
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Injury/Injury detail, and Death of parent
Moderate: Suicide attempt
Minor: Rape, Xenophobia, and Racism
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