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tangiblereads 's review for:

I Made It Out of Clay by Beth Kander
3.5
emotional funny informative reflective tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I Made it Out of Clay is billed as a romcom, and while it does have those aspects, I would say it is more serious than comedy.  I had very few laugh out loud moments. I enjoyed the story which deals heavily with grieving loved ones that have passed on and feeling unprotected in a world of haters (religious fanatics, misogynists, non existent intimate relationships).  Being a minority myself (African American) I saw many similarities regarding feeling unsafe and targeted due to religious affiliation (Jewish in this case).  While I do not feel it is the same because you can easily not showcase your religion compared to skin color, I understood the concept the author was going for.  The feeling of being a target was expressed very well nonetheless.  I loved the expression of Jewish traditions/language in the book.

I loved the many representations in the book as far as black, queer, black Jew.   Very blended.  I liked the characters, but the main character Eve annoyed me.  I get she is going through some stuff, but I found her self centered and arrogant.  The world doesn't revolve around just your feelings lady..  And also for best friends, they don't seem to be.  Anyway, good time if you take at face value and don't ask too many questions. I enjoyed the story.  I think there was a lot of lead up and quick resolutions.  I wouldn't have minded more details toward the end.