PositiveLibrary JournalCharming and quirky ... A character-driven convivial novel.
Téa Obreht
RaveLibrary JournalAn enthralling story ... Obreht draws upon plausible dystopian and postapocalyptic futures and strong elements from Serbian folktales, as well as magical realism. The result is a strange, almost dreamlike novel, distinctive for its memorable characters and beautiful writing.
Nyani Nkrumah
PositiveLibrary JournalWith expert character development, Nkrumah gives memorable voice to a young woman struggling to overcome familial abuse and find her way in the world. A strength of this novel is how sharply different Katherine’s portrayal is compared with white characters in novels like Kathryn Stockett’s The Help.
Sarah Thankam Mathews
RaveLibrary JournalUsing humor and beautiful prose, Mathews successfully tackles timely and serious subjects. Despite all the hardships they face, Sneha and the other well-rounded characters are able to build their futures because enduring friendships enable them to persist and even thrive. Ultimately, the novel’s title is its prophetic and vitally hopeful message. Highly recommended.
Tess Gunty
RaveLibrary JournalWeirdly absorbing ... The story’s mystery and beauty are driven by Blandine’s narrative...but Gunty also deftly weaves in the stories of the other residents. Each character is plagued by loneliness, secrets, and unfulfilled aspirations that the novel reveals through masterly prose and imaginative depictions ... A woefully beautiful tale of a community striving for rebirth and redemption; highly recommended.
Tara M. Stringfellow
RaveLibrary JournalStringfellow has crafted a rich tapestry of women’s familial relationships. Occasionally, she may restrain her characters emotionally, which flattens their dimensionality, but overall this is a well-written debut by an author worth watching in years to come. Recommended for anyone who appreciates Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, or Gloria Naylor.
