A review by a1eeza
Polaris Musim Dingin by Alicia Lidwina

hopeful inspiring reflective slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.75

A very character-driven story. 

Polaris Musim Dingin follows the story of a group of friends facing individual struggles throughout their coming-of-age phase. The ‘found-family’ aspect was STRONG! 

This book was heartwarming at times, and I loved the writing style the author uses. Flowery words and unique figures of speech were what stood out to me. 

I can’t say much about the author’s efforts to integrate Japanese culture into the story, so I cannot judge how accurate it is. However, I was still able to feel that a considerable amount of research was put into writing this book. I stopped to Google some phrases like “Otaru Yuki Akari no Michi” and “Canal City Hakata” and these places and events were indeed real.

The premise itself is, as I’ve mentioned, very character-driven. It may be my lack of personal preference regarding these types of books but I feel it is what made the story bland. At many times I really had to push through reading, and it felt like I was forcing myself to continue.

It is worth noting that at times, the entire personality of the characters revolved around their issues or unfortunate situations. Whether it be the character being an orphan, not having a father, or having unsupportive parents, it felt as though those particular points were the ONLY thing that made the character who they were. With that in mind, it didn’t feel realistic for the characters to bring up their ONE issue over and over again throughout the book. 

A large issue I had is that many aspects were very ‘storybook.’ An example is the way Kyouhei reacted to Ryuji upon their first encounter many years later. I understand how their time with Sensei in Shirokuma Bistro may have been life-altering. But, (and I feel bad for saying this), it was really only one year. To add, the way Akari was bullied because other kids at school blamed her for her parents’ death was… super unrealistic? 

I rate this book CLOSE to 3 stars because aside from all the personal issues I may have with it, I know many people love a cozy character-driven story, AND the writing was far from bad.