Oof, the intergenerational trauma depictions in this novel are so powerful and nuanced. Took my breath away at points. The way Bennett ebbs and flows between the different generations is masterful. 

I read this for the first time a few years ago, before realising I was trans. On re-read, I absolutely LOVE the trans rep in here. The best part of it was that there wasn’t any ‘bonus’ trans trauma. Bennett showed the traumatic reality of trans guy's day-to-day lives really clearly, but without the need for violence/hate crime etc. at every corner. That was really nice to read. 

At that point really stands for the novel in its entirety. The characters do experience trauma, but a lot of it is off page, or told in a removed flashback, so the reader can fully understand the events, but not be overwhelmed by them. It’s then clear that the climactic events we do see on-page are included very intentionally, rather than purely for shock factor or drama. 

What showcases Bennett’s skill, is that as a reader I still felt the full weight of each event, even if I didn’t experience it on-page/’first hand’. She includes really important discussions on these topics, and it’s clearly all done with a solid purpose. 

Such a powerful book.