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A review by shansometimes
How to Pronounce Knife by Souvankham Thammavongsa
4.0
How to Pronounce Knife is a short story collection about Laotian immigrants and their experiences as they adjust to a new country, build new lives, make a living, and raise families. The feeling of wanting to belong is palpable between the lines.
I was most impressed by the author's handling of the short story form and how she closed the loop on her points, however simple they may be. I thought the first half was stronger than the second half, and the stories are light on setting details and character development. However, I still loved these charming stories. They balanced the bleak and hopeful feelings well and portrayed an honest, affecting look at the painful and sweet moments in the characters' lives.
I was most impressed by the author's handling of the short story form and how she closed the loop on her points, however simple they may be. I thought the first half was stronger than the second half, and the stories are light on setting details and character development. However, I still loved these charming stories. They balanced the bleak and hopeful feelings well and portrayed an honest, affecting look at the painful and sweet moments in the characters' lives.