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A review by gobooksgo
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
5.0
I did not want to put this book down, but at the same time it was extremely hard to read. The story is upsetting, to say the least, and when you think it couldn’t possibly get any worse, it does. The connection that I felt to the main characters is what kept me reading each day. The author is very successful at making the audience FEEL for Jude.
I also enjoyed the author’s use of timeline. She is quite effective in layering the past into the present-day narrative. Her writing style suits me (well written but not overly flowery). While reading, I spent a significant amount of time thinking about the juxtaposition between a brutal past and a privileged adult life (financially well off and full of loving friendships). Although Jude was dealt the worst hand in life as a child, he succeeded where many people in the same situation would not have. For some reason this stuck with me while I was reading and I couldn’t help but worry about people dealing with this in real life with less “privilege” than Jude. I suppose when a book makes you think and feel this much, it deserves the praise.
I also enjoyed the author’s use of timeline. She is quite effective in layering the past into the present-day narrative. Her writing style suits me (well written but not overly flowery). While reading, I spent a significant amount of time thinking about the juxtaposition between a brutal past and a privileged adult life (financially well off and full of loving friendships). Although Jude was dealt the worst hand in life as a child, he succeeded where many people in the same situation would not have. For some reason this stuck with me while I was reading and I couldn’t help but worry about people dealing with this in real life with less “privilege” than Jude. I suppose when a book makes you think and feel this much, it deserves the praise.