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A review by ozioma
Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin
dark
emotional
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
This is a short story with a lot of heart and emotion. You can feel Giovanni’s love and David’s desperation seeping from the pages. At times it could feel like a literal punch to the gut. James Baldwin brought the characters to life in such an vivid way. He also showed in such a raw way what it means to be repulsed by who you are; to fight your sexuality so much that it overtakes your every decision.
The writing is great and it would make a good reread.
My main problem with the book is that it took me too long to get into it. I don’t know why I couldn’t connect with any of the characters until the halfway point of the book and my rating reflects that.
I definitely enjoyed this book but I am an emotional reader and I don’t think it fit with the emotional state I was when I read it. Nevertheless great book.
P.s I really loved Hella and her whole dialogue about womanhood.
The writing is great and it would make a good reread.
My main problem with the book is that it took me too long to get into it. I don’t know why I couldn’t connect with any of the characters until the halfway point of the book and my rating reflects that.
I definitely enjoyed this book but I am an emotional reader and I don’t think it fit with the emotional state I was when I read it. Nevertheless great book.
P.s I really loved Hella and her whole dialogue about womanhood.
Content Warnings
Minor: Suicidal thoughts