An incredible story that depicts how classism in a society came to shape one's view on someone & the dangers (& injustices) that came with it.

The author have a way with words the brilliantly expressed the characters' experiences without explicitly needing to line out the underlying messages; the impact of injustices towards those made marginalized were the key.

Regardless, the magical way the author told the story weighs it with hope that was inspiring & touching to me. Such an amazing read!

Content Warnings

Phoenix Extravagant by Yoon Ha Lee

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adventurous challenging medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

The Vanished Birds by Simon Jimenez

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adventurous challenging emotional reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I don't think I have the right words to describe how reading this book made me feel. Humbly, it was mindblowingly incredible!

Jimenez spins words like a master magician. I'm just in awe.

Content Warnings

Open Water by Caleb Azumah Nelson

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emotional reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

A philosophical exploration on what it meant to confront your vulnerabilities being someone who is made to be marginalised, specifically being a Black British person.

Weaved with views from others (e.g. writers) within the community, I thought Nelson's writing unfolds beautifully in a gentle, heartwrenching manner as our main character reach his peace.

Content Warnings