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A review by camille_catterpillar
The Sharp Edge of Silence by Cameron Kelly Rosenblum
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I don't often read YA, so do take my review with a grain of salt.
I LIKED:
- the way this book treats a serious issue, in a way that is appropriate for its intended audience without sacrificing the story and feeling too didactic,
- the variety and complexity of the characters,
- the dynamic storytelling, making this a propulsive thriller for all ages.
HOWEVER, while I mentioned the variety and complexity of the characters, I feel these weren't fully exploited. The book does a great job at analysing the subtleties of misogyny, from implicit cultural biases, unchecked practices and traditions, to overt, violent sexism -- but it doesn't quite do the same for class, which does seem to also be an important theme. There is no nuance between the statuses of the various male characters, who are all of different social classes, and whose 'security' on the social ladder does heavily influence their decisions, especially when it comes to belonging into a group.
I LIKED:
- the way this book treats a serious issue, in a way that is appropriate for its intended audience without sacrificing the story and feeling too didactic,
- the variety and complexity of the characters,
- the dynamic storytelling, making this a propulsive thriller for all ages.
HOWEVER, while I mentioned the variety and complexity of the characters, I feel these weren't fully exploited. The book does a great job at analysing the subtleties of misogyny, from implicit cultural biases, unchecked practices and traditions, to overt, violent sexism -- but it doesn't quite do the same for class, which does seem to also be an important theme. There is no nuance between the statuses of the various male characters, who are all of different social classes, and whose 'security' on the social ladder does heavily influence their decisions, especially when it comes to belonging into a group.