A review by tinyjude
The Boy with a Bird in His Chest by Emme Lund

challenging emotional reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

Gosh, this was so beautifully haunting in an emotional sense. I think, with time and re-reads I will grow to appreciate it more, but still, from the characters, to their relationships, the use of metaphors, the description of such a vivid yet minimalistic landscape, and the narrative style; it was an incredible journey. I loved the imagery, how complex Owen was, his relationship with his family, friends and lover. I felt deeply inside the echos of my own fear to be seen, to be loved (as a queer person)... as I read his thoughts and feelings. The pull he felt towards the water. Any sort of kaleidoscopic description given, honestly, was just so... tasty for the senses. His apathy, depression and anxiety were also very relatable. It made me want to hug him so bad. They all deserve a good hug.
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