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A review by angieoverbooked
New People by Danzy Senna
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
There is just something about Danzy Senna’s writing style that does it for me.
Did I like Maria, the MC? No. Do I normally prefer likeable MCs in contemporary fiction? Yes. (As opposed to thrillers, where I almost always find the characters to be unlikeable but can still get into the story.)
Still, Senna successfully put me in a trance as I read this story of a biracial (could pass for white) woman in 1990s Brooklyn as she quietly unravels in the most concerning of ways. It’s a book that seems like mostly vibes but there are fascinating moments weaved in that address both self-identity and group-identity. And commentary on cults always interests me so I liked the way that fit into this story because Maria is writing her dissertation on the Jonestown massacre.
Still, Senna successfully put me in a trance as I read this story of a biracial (could pass for white) woman in 1990s Brooklyn as she quietly unravels in the most concerning of ways. It’s a book that seems like mostly vibes but there are fascinating moments weaved in that address both self-identity and group-identity. And commentary on cults always interests me so I liked the way that fit into this story because Maria is writing her dissertation on the Jonestown massacre.
This isn’t a book for everyone but it is for me. I’d previously only read Caucasia by Senna but now I’m going to read the rest of her catalog asap. And I can’t wait for her 2024 release.
Ratings
Quality of Writing 5/5
Pacing 5/5
Plot Development 3/5
Character Development 4/5
Overall Enjoyability 5/5
Quality of Writing 5/5
Pacing 5/5
Plot Development 3/5
Character Development 4/5
Overall Enjoyability 5/5