A review by bookishplantmom
The Goldfinch, by Donna Tartt
dark
reflective
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
This was a beautifully written and rather bleak look at the story of Theo as he copes with the aftermath of a traumatic event from is early life. I enjoyed the romantic tone of some of the passages that described artworks and furniture restaurations.
I have to say that Tartt’s attempt at showing « diversity » in the backdrop of New York was remarkably inept. Her repeated use of the N-word and constant description of BIPOC characters through stereotypes got old really quickly. I found much of her language to be outdated and problematic though I will concede that they fit the characters and era they were living in to a certain extent.
Her exploration of trauma, depression, addiction and grief were compelling and I really felt for Theo despite finding him a little daft at times. Overall this is a very well written book and I’m glad I read it.
I have to say that Tartt’s attempt at showing « diversity » in the backdrop of New York was remarkably inept. Her repeated use of the N-word and constant description of BIPOC characters through stereotypes got old really quickly. I found much of her language to be outdated and problematic though I will concede that they fit the characters and era they were living in to a certain extent.
Her exploration of trauma, depression, addiction and grief were compelling and I really felt for Theo despite finding him a little daft at times. Overall this is a very well written book and I’m glad I read it.
Graphic: Alcoholism, Child abuse, Addiction, and Death of parent
Moderate: Homophobia and Racial slurs