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A review by trivial_reads
Happiness Falls by Angie Kim
3.0
"Happiness Falls" is a contemporary family drama that Angie Kim masterfully crafts around a heart-wrenching premise: a father and his nonverbal son, Eugene, venture into a park, but only Eugene returns, traumatized and with mysterious blood under his fingernails. As the sole witness to his father's disappearance, Eugene's inability to communicate adds a compelling layer of complexity to the unfolding mystery.
Kim skillfully propels the narrative by exploring the family's urgent efforts to unravel the disturbing incident while navigating the challenges of collaborating with law enforcement. Throughout the novel, Kim addresses profound issues of ableism, race, and gender, weaving them into the fabric of a biracial family's dynamic. Moreover, she delves into broader philosophical inquiries about language, perception, and the nature of happiness itself.
This thought-provoking novel not only captivates with its suspenseful plot but also challenges readers to reconsider their assumptions and biases. Kim illuminates the human propensity for seeking explanations, inviting reflection on how these impulses shape our understanding of the world and each other.
"Happiness Falls" is a compelling exploration of mystery, empathy, and the limits of communication. It is a must-read for those who appreciate depth in character and theme.
Kim skillfully propels the narrative by exploring the family's urgent efforts to unravel the disturbing incident while navigating the challenges of collaborating with law enforcement. Throughout the novel, Kim addresses profound issues of ableism, race, and gender, weaving them into the fabric of a biracial family's dynamic. Moreover, she delves into broader philosophical inquiries about language, perception, and the nature of happiness itself.
This thought-provoking novel not only captivates with its suspenseful plot but also challenges readers to reconsider their assumptions and biases. Kim illuminates the human propensity for seeking explanations, inviting reflection on how these impulses shape our understanding of the world and each other.
"Happiness Falls" is a compelling exploration of mystery, empathy, and the limits of communication. It is a must-read for those who appreciate depth in character and theme.