biggaywave's Reviews (251)

A powerful and extro/introspective collection of poems and concluding essays that allows its words to be a bomb built in a garden. The interwoven motifs such as those of crows, jasmine, and fangs tie the collection together, weaving a story of resistance, revolution, and resolute commitment to decolonization efforts globally. Beautiful and precise in every detail. 

Nothing made me hungrier than reading this recipe for humanities capability for love and connection. There were stories and narration I wish was given greater time and attention. Overall, the poetic lyricism Zauner utilizes is compelling and precise, like a mother’s recipes.

Using varying forms of poetry, KB tells us just what is on their mind, and it is a scathing review of the failings of cis/hetero white capitalist and colonized America. These poems give meaning and emotion to the individual and community plights that reject these structures daily. 

Funny and an engaging plot, this book is good for a middle-grade reader. The main character was incredibly flawed, and I would have liked to see more clarity on the critic of this character by those around them in the conclusion. 

A powerful and informative collection of essays that are together a critical read for young adults of all identities. But this books is especially important for black queer and trans kids as they search for meaning and connection in a world that denies them. There were times I’d lose the narrative thread, but ultimately this memoir succeeds in loving its audience always, and allowing that to be the message.