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A review by blymanor
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
slow-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
Edit: This Youtube review has me questioning my initial impression of this novel
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpZF7O0jezg
I was moved by this book, something that books don't often do for me, inspiring my initial five star review. However, this review I watched pointed out that Yanagihara did not sufficiently research the sensitive topics she presented. She also includes graphic depictions of self harm that could be harmful if read by the wrong people.
Overall, I am still impressed with this book stylistically and narratively, writing a novel this long that keeps people engaged is no small feat, but the author should perhaps have spent some more time questioning her own biases and seeking outside perspectives before dedicating 720 pages to such a triggering topic.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpZF7O0jezg
I was moved by this book, something that books don't often do for me, inspiring my initial five star review. However, this review I watched pointed out that Yanagihara did not sufficiently research the sensitive topics she presented. She also includes graphic depictions of self harm that could be harmful if read by the wrong people.
Overall, I am still impressed with this book stylistically and narratively, writing a novel this long that keeps people engaged is no small feat, but the author should perhaps have spent some more time questioning her own biases and seeking outside perspectives before dedicating 720 pages to such a triggering topic.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Pedophilia, Suicidal thoughts, Ableism, Adult/minor relationship, Child abuse, Physical abuse, Rape, Self harm, Sexual assault, and Suicide attempt
Moderate: Addiction, Body shaming, Car accident, Mental illness, Toxic relationship, Chronic illness, Death, and Medical content
Minor: Biphobia