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A review by cassiesnextchapter
When We Were Vikings by Andrew David MacDonald
4.0
Despite being on the fetal alcohol spectrum, Zelda wants to be a modern day Viking hero so she can save her family. Join her on her quest!
Full Book Review
My Thoughts... 4.5 stars!
I loved that When We Were Vikings is told from Zelda's viewpoint. She's a wonderfully unique and resilient protagonist. Instead of the story being told about her, which might elicit pity instead of understanding, Zelda reframes her disabilities by telling her own story. We're able to see her strengths and limitations through her own eyes.
The cast of characters is very diverse (races, sexual orientations, ages, family situations, mental abilities) but it doesn't feel forced. This charming and quirky bunch of characters brings such candor and breathes life into the pages. They're awkward and uncomfortable, often failing miserably and are shockingly offensive, but they always try again.
Having some family members with mental disabilities, this book really touched my heart. Not because it merely talks about similar people who struggle with the same life choices, but because it portrays them so compassionately...And with awkward humor for their unflinching comfort with things that make many others flinch. Like sex. Oh my, the conversations about sex that Zelda and her boyfriend have with their family is amazing and so perfectly honest.
Give this book a try, I can't imagine you'll be disappointed. There's laughs, tears, and smiles to be had! I can guarantee that you will fall in love with Zelda, and you might even decide to become your own Viking hero!
TW for sexual abuse and violence / CW for language and sexual language
Thank you to Scout Press for a complimentary copy of this advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest opinion. I voluntarily reviewed this book, and all opinions expressed are my own.
Full Book Review
My Thoughts... 4.5 stars!
I loved that When We Were Vikings is told from Zelda's viewpoint. She's a wonderfully unique and resilient protagonist. Instead of the story being told about her, which might elicit pity instead of understanding, Zelda reframes her disabilities by telling her own story. We're able to see her strengths and limitations through her own eyes.
The cast of characters is very diverse (races, sexual orientations, ages, family situations, mental abilities) but it doesn't feel forced. This charming and quirky bunch of characters brings such candor and breathes life into the pages. They're awkward and uncomfortable, often failing miserably and are shockingly offensive, but they always try again.
Having some family members with mental disabilities, this book really touched my heart. Not because it merely talks about similar people who struggle with the same life choices, but because it portrays them so compassionately...And with awkward humor for their unflinching comfort with things that make many others flinch. Like sex. Oh my, the conversations about sex that Zelda and her boyfriend have with their family is amazing and so perfectly honest.
Give this book a try, I can't imagine you'll be disappointed. There's laughs, tears, and smiles to be had! I can guarantee that you will fall in love with Zelda, and you might even decide to become your own Viking hero!
TW for sexual abuse and violence / CW for language and sexual language
Thank you to Scout Press for a complimentary copy of this advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest opinion. I voluntarily reviewed this book, and all opinions expressed are my own.