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A review by rieviolet
The Magical Language of Others by E.J. Koh
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This is certainly not a light read but it felt hard-hitting and emotional in the best of ways.
The writing style felt very unique to me, I found that many turns of phrases really wonderfully stretched the English language. It was an impactful style, bringing forth emotions in a very direct and poignant manner.
I really liked the book's structure, with the chapters interspersed with letters from the author's mother. I really enjoyed following the author's own experiences but I think that what stood out to me the most were the sections focusing on her grandmother's stories. They were so interesting and there was a very tangible and at the same time ethereal quality to them.
This is certainly a book that will stay with me and that I want to revisit again in the future.
The writing style felt very unique to me, I found that many turns of phrases really wonderfully stretched the English language. It was an impactful style, bringing forth emotions in a very direct and poignant manner.
I really liked the book's structure, with the chapters interspersed with letters from the author's mother. I really enjoyed following the author's own experiences but I think that what stood out to me the most were the sections focusing on her grandmother's stories. They were so interesting and there was a very tangible and at the same time ethereal quality to them.
This is certainly a book that will stay with me and that I want to revisit again in the future.
Graphic: War, Violence, Murder, Gore, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide attempt, and Eating disorder
Moderate: Animal death, Abandonment, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, Death, Death of parent, Genocide, Grief, Mental illness, and Blood
Minor: Alcohol, Body shaming, Fatphobia, Infidelity, Pregnancy, Sexual violence, and Vomit