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A review by marywahlmeierbracciano
The Death of Vivek Oji by Akwaeke Emezi
challenging
emotional
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
The Death of Vivek Oji feels like an extended meditation on queerness and transness. In a country like Nigeria, where these identities are criminalized, it’s especially true for trans people that only they know what is best for them, though this will not stop well-meaning friends and family. Emezi’s heartbreaking parable invites readers to imagine a world in which a trans person living freely is not “dancing with death.” A world in which trans people are recognized as otherworldly gifts. Born on the anniversary of his grandmother’s death, Vivek Oji was destined to be different
Graphic: Grief and Infidelity
Moderate: Transphobia, Religious bigotry, Infertility, Blood, Homophobia, Animal death, Death, and Sexual content
Minor: Injury/Injury detail, Sexual violence, and Violence