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A review by 2treads
Discerner of Hearts by Olive Senior
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Olive Senior has done it again. Proven her depth of knowledge not only of people, but their history, cultural norms and positions in society. She has used this landscape to excavate racial prejudices, internalized and learned racism, hierarchical structures, social striations, and their impact on her characters.
It is a testament to her prowess with the story form to put to page stories of people who are so very easily imagined and empathized with as they each struggle with their own trials. No matter the generation, she handles them with deft hands so her readers are able to see everything come to life and roll out across the pages. Each story has elements that allow for thought and contemplation, making us really wonder whether our societies and communities have entirely been able to extract themselves from colonial-led thought patterns and perspectives.
It is a testament to her prowess with the story form to put to page stories of people who are so very easily imagined and empathized with as they each struggle with their own trials. No matter the generation, she handles them with deft hands so her readers are able to see everything come to life and roll out across the pages. Each story has elements that allow for thought and contemplation, making us really wonder whether our societies and communities have entirely been able to extract themselves from colonial-led thought patterns and perspectives.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Mental illness and Racism
Minor: Pregnancy