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maryk8 's review for:
Joan Is Okay
by Weike Wang
I started out thinking is book was just OK, especially since it employs the overused trope of the main character being on the autism spectrum. This is never directly acknowledged but is evident in her behavior. Also, I listened to the audiobook and the narrator choose a very clipped, direct style of speech. However, this book grew on my over time. Joan is a likable protagonist, and as the story evolves and we get to know her parents and brother, you begin to wonder how much of her personality is based on a condition and how much was a result of her upbringing as the child of Chinese immigrants.
This takes place right before and in the early months of the Covid pandemic. That adds an extra element to the story since we as the readers who have lived through it know what is to come.
I reread this book because it was selected for my neighborhood book club. I enjoyed reading it again and cheering for Joan to overcome everyone else's opinions and forge a life she is comfortable with. Since last reading the book, I have learned more about mental health issues and had a better understanding of Joan's situation. Also, with some more distance from the start of the Covid lockdown, I was able to appreciate how the author provided a historical record of the life of a medical professional at that time.
This takes place right before and in the early months of the Covid pandemic. That adds an extra element to the story since we as the readers who have lived through it know what is to come.
I reread this book because it was selected for my neighborhood book club. I enjoyed reading it again and cheering for Joan to overcome everyone else's opinions and forge a life she is comfortable with. Since last reading the book, I have learned more about mental health issues and had a better understanding of Joan's situation. Also, with some more distance from the start of the Covid lockdown, I was able to appreciate how the author provided a historical record of the life of a medical professional at that time.