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A review by v171
On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong
emotional
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
This was a quick read, but incredibly insightful and thought provoking. I was expecting a heartfelt recollection of memories of the author's mother, but there was so much more. I was surprised at the thick, almost tangible nostalgia the author conveyed through their descriptions of their adolescence in Hartford. But I found the story shined brightest during the parts about the author's complex relationship with his family.
With that being said, there were moments where the narrative felt weak and fractured. I found myself skimming through the parts that were more monologuing than insightful. Overall, a good read that I would recommend.
With that being said, there were moments where the narrative felt weak and fractured. I found myself skimming through the parts that were more monologuing than insightful. Overall, a good read that I would recommend.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Addiction, Drug abuse, and Drug use
Minor: Cancer, Death, Dementia, Excrement, Emotional abuse, Grief, Mental illness, Physical abuse, Terminal illness, and Vomit