A review by tiredcath
I Was Born for This by Alice Oseman

emotional fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

“In an otherwise mediocre existence, we choose to feel passion.” 

Conflicted on how I feel about this one. 

Alice Oseman has continually impressed with their characterization, and foreshadowing that really pays off. This novel kind of leaves me stumped. 

On one hand, I thoroughly understand what Oseman was attempting. One parts are beautifully written, as someone who involved themselves in fandoms in my teen years I relate to a lot. The first act was excellent. I appreciated having the duel POVs; the fan and the artist. Jimmy’s anxiety and depression were handled really well, I like the idea of Rowan’s character being almost the anti-celebrity. 

On the other, I truly felt as if this was a first draft. The characters didn’t have enough depth. Things just happened, or characters just said things that didn’t make sense. Motivations were never clear. Most of the characters weren’t likable or had redeeming qualities. (Except for Lister, who should’ve been the man character.) Too many things were glossed over or unresolved. The third act was so messy. 

I wanted to love this. I could see what Oseman was attempting, but the result was a dizzying and confusing story that felt entirely too incomplete. 
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