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purplepenning 's review for:
Maame
by Jessica George
emotional
funny
hopeful
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
This is an exceptionally written character-driven book (with a couple of plot-driven gut punches) that captures the current moment in a way that reminds me of Such a Fun Age. For some reason, I didn't realize the depth of the grief and loss that would be explored, so definitely check those content notes. It also explores racism in the workplace and relationships, pressures of first gen immigrants, modern dating, Google as parent/mentor/friend, loneliness, sexual pressure and pleasure for women, found family, mental health, and more. It's all packed into a deceptively simple story about a daughter with an overly developed sense of responsibility and an underdeveloped support system.
Graphic: Grief
Moderate: Biphobia, Chronic illness, Cursing, Homophobia, Infidelity, Panic attacks/disorders, Racism, Sexism, Sexual assault, Sexual content, Terminal illness, Toxic relationship, Death of parent, Gaslighting, Abandonment, Alcohol
Minor: Suicide
More specifics on the grief and loss: Maddie's experiences surrounding the death of a parent are a gut punch, including a missed opportunity to say goodbye, the painful conversations surrounding the arrangement of services, and the grieving process afterwards