A review by salmaisreadingbooks
I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman

emotional sad

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes

5.0

This was my first book on my reading journey as an adult, and what a way to start! The story is thought-provoking and haunting in the best way possible. It explores profound themes like identity, isolation, and freedom. What’s interesting is how complicated freedom can be. There's a quote from the narrator that really sticks with me: "I was free, but it was the most terrible kind of freedom, the kind that made you wonder whether it wouldn't be better to be back in the cage."This book left me staring at the wall, questioning everything—like what truly makes us human and how deeply society shapes our identities and choices. It also makes you appreciate everything you have in life because the young girl is so content with the smallest things and doesn’t take anything for granted. It’s definitely the kind of read that stays with you long after you finish.