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A review by she_loves_to_read
In Memory of Us by Jacqueline Roy
challenging
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
In Memory Of Us is a beautifully written, emotional, poignant, powerful, and thought-provoking story following twins Selina and Zora as they navigate rampant racism, tragedy, grief, mental health issues, sexuality and illegitimate children post Windrush generation in 1950's/60's Britain.
The story is told from each twins' pov with Zora's chapters focusing on her life as it was. With Selina's story focusing on her life as it is now whilst in the early throes of dementia. Going backwards and forwards as she tries to make sense of her old memories whilst having to confront the tragedy that befell her family after one fateful night and the far-reaching repercussions that affected the family as a whole and individually. Whilst trying to function in the new, vulnerable, confusing, and uncertain world she is facing now.
Jacqueline writes with honesty, validity, and insightfulness. Effortlessly capturing the thoughts, feelings, and emotions of each character, how they think, and the way in which they face the challenges that life throws at them and the reasoning behind it. Culminating in a heartwrenching ending that leaves you in awe of the way in which the brain can create memories and illusions in order to allow us to keep functioning and moving forward.
Jacqueline is a natural storyteller and handles the subjects contained within with honesty relatability and sensitivity. Creating a feeling of sympathy and empathy in her readers.
A story that will stay with me and a highly recommended read from me.
The story is told from each twins' pov with Zora's chapters focusing on her life as it was. With Selina's story focusing on her life as it is now whilst in the early throes of dementia. Going backwards and forwards as she tries to make sense of her old memories whilst having to confront the tragedy that befell her family after one fateful night and the far-reaching repercussions that affected the family as a whole and individually. Whilst trying to function in the new, vulnerable, confusing, and uncertain world she is facing now.
Jacqueline writes with honesty, validity, and insightfulness. Effortlessly capturing the thoughts, feelings, and emotions of each character, how they think, and the way in which they face the challenges that life throws at them and the reasoning behind it. Culminating in a heartwrenching ending that leaves you in awe of the way in which the brain can create memories and illusions in order to allow us to keep functioning and moving forward.
Jacqueline is a natural storyteller and handles the subjects contained within with honesty relatability and sensitivity. Creating a feeling of sympathy and empathy in her readers.
A story that will stay with me and a highly recommended read from me.