A review by l_will8889
Tell Me I'm Worthless by Alison Rumfitt

challenging dark tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.25

I had a really hard time getting through the 140 pages it took to get to the plot that was described on the back of the book. Two whole pages were devoted to transcribing a 4chan post with minimal punctuation, when we got maybe two sentences of lead-in to what should have been a shattering plot twist had there been enough build up. Ila’s perspective and motivations got lost, which made the events of the return to the House and the epilogue feel rushed. The pace and editing didn’t do the story justice (especially if you’re someone who has a hard time with poetry or reading when there aren’t a lot of paragraph breaks). 

That being said, the characters were compelling and difficult in a way that felt honest to their experiences. I loved the literal dual POV moment describing the absolute horror of what really went down between Alice and Ila in the House; the two column format was so unique and gripping I wish I could have read both simultaneously. Unfortunately, I just didn’t find myself enjoying the rest of this book as much as I wanted to. 
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