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A review by raynatuina
Beijing Comrades by Bei Tong
challenging
emotional
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
I excitedly grabbed this book for the cultural and sociopolitical issues it tackled from a queer book store – aka, I assumed it to be right up my alley. My mistake however, was not realising I was in the erotica section (LOL).
In short, it wasn't the book I had anticipated, nor was it the book I hoped it'd become. BUT, I take that as a reflection of my expectations not of the author's intentions/inspirations for this book.
It was challenging to read at times because toxic character traits were explored in depth without equal reflection or growth. Hence, in absence, the flaws appear unchallenged, normalised, and romanticised (my BIGGEST peeve).
Nonetheless, it portrays the reality of being queer in an unwelcoming comphet society – affording the protagonist grace in their hindered development.
It's heart breaking, sad, and does leave this sociopolitical reader wishing there was a bit more guts to this book.
In short, it wasn't the book I had anticipated, nor was it the book I hoped it'd become. BUT, I take that as a reflection of my expectations not of the author's intentions/inspirations for this book.
It was challenging to read at times because toxic character traits were explored in depth without equal reflection or growth. Hence, in absence, the flaws appear unchallenged, normalised, and romanticised (my BIGGEST peeve).
Nonetheless, it portrays the reality of being queer in an unwelcoming comphet society – affording the protagonist grace in their hindered development.
It's heart breaking, sad, and does leave this sociopolitical reader wishing there was a bit more guts to this book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gaslighting, Emotional abuse, Misogyny, Toxic relationship, Adult/minor relationship, Homophobia, and Sexual content
Moderate: Forced institutionalization
Minor: Death, Car accident, and Suicide