Powerful ... Dang uses the metaphor to expertly explore Ronny’s deep rage and grief over the devastating losses of her brother and her virginity, as well as how she reclaims her power; and in doing so, she finds a deeper connection with her family and her heritage. Intense, visceral, and not to be missed.
Brutal and poignant; Dang writes beautifully about the complexity of adolescence and generational trauma ... Balancing vulnerability, rage, horror, and compassion, the novel explores identity as both a blessing and curse.
Dang keenly captures her narrator’s alienation and anger, and the intergenerational tale concludes with a powerful revelation about the parents’ unspoken trauma from the Vietnam War. This one hits hard.
