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A review by sashasghost
Heaven by Mieko Kawakami
dark
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
this is a brutal and beautiful read.
the writing style is brilliant, you feel like you're delving into the mind of a 14 year old, the writing is mature yet simultaneously doesn't feel like it's written by an adult. Kawakami perfectly captures the voice of the unnamed boy, you feel like you're experiencing his thoughts and feelings as your own.
the complexity of the friendship with Kojima is so beautifully written. each interaction has a weight to it, the socially awkward, inept fumbling of these teenagers to the reflective, intense moments of coming to terms with life.
the content is intense but never feels gratuitous. everything has it's place and fits in. the event in the penultimate chapter is terrifying. it doesn't feel exploitative. i've been affected by the issues that event bought up, but it's clear Kawakami deeply understands the gravity of it. it's pleasant as a survivor to see it respected. it's the first time i've been able to read about it.
the bullying is very intense, to the point where at times you're riddled with stomach churning anxiety.
the final chapter felt so light, filled with hope. i'd highly recommend the read to anyone, but check the trigger warnings as a lot of dark, traumatic stuff happens.
the writing style is brilliant, you feel like you're delving into the mind of a 14 year old, the writing is mature yet simultaneously doesn't feel like it's written by an adult. Kawakami perfectly captures the voice of the unnamed boy, you feel like you're experiencing his thoughts and feelings as your own.
the complexity of the friendship with Kojima is so beautifully written. each interaction has a weight to it, the socially awkward, inept fumbling of these teenagers to the reflective, intense moments of coming to terms with life.
the content is intense but never feels gratuitous. everything has it's place and fits in. the event in the penultimate chapter is terrifying. it doesn't feel exploitative. i've been affected by the issues that event bought up, but it's clear Kawakami deeply understands the gravity of it. it's pleasant as a survivor to see it respected. it's the first time i've been able to read about it.
the bullying is very intense, to the point where at times you're riddled with stomach churning anxiety.
the final chapter felt so light, filled with hope. i'd highly recommend the read to anyone, but check the trigger warnings as a lot of dark, traumatic stuff happens.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying and Physical abuse
Moderate: Sexual assault and Sexual content
Minor: Death