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katymaryreads 's review for:

Joan Is Okay by Weike Wang
1.5
reflective slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I did not like this book, and probably would not have finished it if it had not been a book club choice. It was a "slice of life" book, but the life was monumentally dull, and actually unbelievable in places. The things that did happen were unexciting - even Covid was a non-event, and the protagonist was an ICU doctor! The main character is probably autistic, although that is never explicitly stated, but I felt that this doesn't explain her motivation to be so totally work-focussed and uncomprehending of those who are not, nor her relationship (limited as it was) with her family. Her family obviously care about her and want the best for her, although their way of trying to get this is un-subtle and just irritates and confuses her. Apparently there is a lot of humour in this book, but it was lost on me. I can see how this might appeal to someone who likes quirky characters with a different view on the world from what is typical, but this book was not for me.

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