i just loved this so much and struggled to put it down. this was so funny, yet discussed sensitive topics in a mature and nuanced way, and offered a really intersectional perspective of many different issues humans face. queenie was such a well-defined character and it was hard not to root for her throughout. such a good read!

i found this book so fascinating and so gripping. i loved the natural weaving of academic information within a rich work of fiction. this gives such a detailed insight into gender-based oppression and discrimination within korea, but so many of these issues are universal, albeit not always to the same extent as it is within korean culture. very reflective - makes us question how far society has come and how far it still has to go, considering the reality that women are still treated as a monolith and considered statistics over human beings.

originally rated this 3.75 stars but god it’s even better on the second read

i really loved this book. such a unique commentary regarding conformity within societal norms, and, at least from my interpretation, institutionalised ableism within capitalist structures. keiko is clearly neurodivergent, and i thought this was a really interesting piece on how fitting in means different things for different people. a really interesting critique and exploration of whether it truly is possible to remain an individual whilst partaking in society.

this is one of the most enthusiastic five star ratings i’ve given this year. this book was absolutely incredible. it dives into the nuances of racism, dissecting and providing such a unique commentary on performative allyship, white privilege and guilt. this, for me, was a perfect mix of character-depth and a gripping plot. the narrative voice is so refreshing, allowing for intricacies within the storyline but doing so in a really accessible way. i really loved this book and would recommend it to anyone.