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A review by cloreadsbooks1364
If You Still Recognise Me by Cynthia So
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Oh. My. Gosh. This book was so delightful!!!
Where to begin....
The plot, with Elsie discovering who she is, uncovering family secrets, and trying to reconnect two elderly women who haven't contacted each other in decades, was packed! However, no one aspect dominated, creating a very fluid pace.
Elsie herself was such a lovable protagonist, extremely realistic.
Ada, who we didn't actually meet until later in the book, seemed possibly the most realistic, as did Ritika. Joan was such an amazing character, and I loved seeing her and Elsie regrow their friendship.
Elsie's family were a key part of her life, her grandmother, Po Po, was staying with her and her parents after her husband's death, although she hadn't seen them in eight years. Her parents, while not being openly homophobic, seemed disapproving of queer people. And her uncle Kevin... Elsie hadn't heard from him in ages. In all, the family were all top-tier characters.
The inclusion of Elsie's experiences as a non-white person in the UK was important, as were the many mentions of her culture. I've been trying to read more diversely culture-wise, and loved how much I learned from this book.
The romance was absolutely adorable! That's all I can really say about it without spoilers, sorry!
The only problem I have is that I could've read 10 more chapters, anything to get more time with the characters!!!
Where to begin....
The plot, with Elsie discovering who she is, uncovering family secrets, and trying to reconnect two elderly women who haven't contacted each other in decades, was packed! However, no one aspect dominated, creating a very fluid pace.
Elsie herself was such a lovable protagonist, extremely realistic.
Ada, who we didn't actually meet until later in the book, seemed possibly the most realistic, as did Ritika. Joan was such an amazing character, and I loved seeing her and Elsie regrow their friendship.
Elsie's family were a key part of her life, her grandmother, Po Po, was staying with her and her parents after her husband's death, although she hadn't seen them in eight years. Her parents, while not being openly homophobic, seemed disapproving of queer people. And her uncle Kevin... Elsie hadn't heard from him in ages. In all, the family were all top-tier characters.
The inclusion of Elsie's experiences as a non-white person in the UK was important, as were the many mentions of her culture. I've been trying to read more diversely culture-wise, and loved how much I learned from this book.
The romance was absolutely adorable! That's all I can really say about it without spoilers, sorry!
The only problem I have is that I could've read 10 more chapters, anything to get more time with the characters!!!