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.
Dang’s skillful characterizations of Ronny and her family members make this a work that delves much deeper than what could appear as just another story of teen angst ... Filled with unexpected twists and shocking elements, Dang’s novel will appeal to adults and teens alike and have them looking more from this promising new voice.
fuses a traditional coming-of-age narrative with a poignant exploration of intergenerational trauma. Catherine Dang navigates themes of cultural identity, the lasting effects of war, and adolescent feminine rage in a novel that is at times heartbreaking, at times funny, and wholly unforgettable.
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.
