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A review by liamliayaum
Big in Sweden by Sally Franson
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
I truly don't know what to think. The characters are stereotypes of both Americans and Swedes. There are big and flowery words that seem unnecessary. There is repetitive language, for example, the TV show host is always described as affable. Always. There are numerous hot button topics discussed so take care with the content warnings.
The main character, Paulie, has some Karen energy. She is also obsessed with Pippi Longstocking and uses Pippi as her moral compass, as a mid-30s adult.
I don't know if I like or hate it more. At the very least, I can relate to Swedish ancestors coming over to the states as my great grandfather emmigrated and I am in contact with some of my Swedish family. And the fact that I've visited Sweden and a handful of the places mentioned in the book.
To borrow a word from Swedish, this book is a smorgasbord. And, in a way, can't be translated.
The main character, Paulie, has some Karen energy. She is also obsessed with Pippi Longstocking and uses Pippi as her moral compass, as a mid-30s adult.
I don't know if I like or hate it more. At the very least, I can relate to Swedish ancestors coming over to the states as my great grandfather emmigrated and I am in contact with some of my Swedish family. And the fact that I've visited Sweden and a handful of the places mentioned in the book.
To borrow a word from Swedish, this book is a smorgasbord. And, in a way, can't be translated.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Toxic relationship
Moderate: Ableism, Alcoholism, Racism, Sexism, Religious bigotry, Abortion, Abandonment, and Alcohol
Minor: Sexual content, Death of parent, Cultural appropriation, and Colonisation