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 I found much of her language to be outdated and problematic though I will concede that they fit the characters and era they were living in to a certain extent.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. 

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