Scan barcode
A review by readsrandiread
My Father, the Panda Killer by Jamie Jo Hoang
challenging
emotional
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Do you ever finish a book and then massively struggle with how to feel about it?? Seriously, I can’t even decide what to write here. Which may lead one to ask why I’m bothering, to which I have no answer. 🤷🏻♀️
Did I appreciate a look at how harrowing and nightmarish leaving Vietnam as a refugee was?
Yes, absolutely.
How about appreciating the look at Vietnamese families and culture?
Again, yes.
Can I accept that hurt people hurt people?
I don’t like it, but I understand that it happens.
Is violent child abuse something I can accept or explain away because of an unthinkable past or cultural differences?
No, absolutely no.
I don’t think this book is trying to justify child abuse as much as trying to offer a broader picture. But there were lines and scenes that felt a little too dismissive for me and are making wrapping my head around the book as a whole rough for me.
Do I recommend the book?
Yes, but go into knowing you will be sitting in an uncomfortable murky gray.
Did I appreciate a look at how harrowing and nightmarish leaving Vietnam as a refugee was?
Yes, absolutely.
How about appreciating the look at Vietnamese families and culture?
Again, yes.
Can I accept that hurt people hurt people?
I don’t like it, but I understand that it happens.
Is violent child abuse something I can accept or explain away because of an unthinkable past or cultural differences?
No, absolutely no.
I don’t think this book is trying to justify child abuse as much as trying to offer a broader picture. But there were lines and scenes that felt a little too dismissive for me and are making wrapping my head around the book as a whole rough for me.
Do I recommend the book?
Yes, but go into knowing you will be sitting in an uncomfortable murky gray.