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A review by raikowlreads
You've Got the Map Backwards by Brian Usobiaga
challenging
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Thank you to BookSirens & Brian for giving me an advance reader copy.
We follow the story of both Aisha & Sarah throughout the book. Sarah grapples with a drinking problem and fluctuating mental health, while Aisha navigates the isolating landscape of anxiety during her second year of college.
Despite their complexities, the girls attempt to uphold their lifelong friendship, weathering numerous challenges along the way.
One commendable aspect of the book is its portrayal of Sarah's battle with alcoholism, which feels authentic and relatable. As someone who has personally struggled with similar issues, I found the depiction of her attitude and the consequences of addiction to be strikingly realistic. The story was sombre, but yet still engaging due to its simple writing style. It gave a good flow to the story.
I found myself resonating with the characters, which enhanced my enjoyment of the book.
This writing style might not be for everyone, but it's definitely great for someone who isn't ready to read at a high level yet as a non-native speaker.
So overall the pacing was pretty nice, it wasn't slow but also not too fast either. The characters can feel a bit bland to some, but this could be attributed to the nature of mental illness, which often obscures one's sense of self until they find their way out.
In conclusion, "You've Got the Map Backwards" earns a rating of 4/5 from me.
We follow the story of both Aisha & Sarah throughout the book. Sarah grapples with a drinking problem and fluctuating mental health, while Aisha navigates the isolating landscape of anxiety during her second year of college.
Despite their complexities, the girls attempt to uphold their lifelong friendship, weathering numerous challenges along the way.
One commendable aspect of the book is its portrayal of Sarah's battle with alcoholism, which feels authentic and relatable. As someone who has personally struggled with similar issues, I found the depiction of her attitude and the consequences of addiction to be strikingly realistic. The story was sombre, but yet still engaging due to its simple writing style. It gave a good flow to the story.
I found myself resonating with the characters, which enhanced my enjoyment of the book.
This writing style might not be for everyone, but it's definitely great for someone who isn't ready to read at a high level yet as a non-native speaker.
So overall the pacing was pretty nice, it wasn't slow but also not too fast either. The characters can feel a bit bland to some, but this could be attributed to the nature of mental illness, which often obscures one's sense of self until they find their way out.
In conclusion, "You've Got the Map Backwards" earns a rating of 4/5 from me.