A review by starrysteph
Freshwater by Akwaeke Emezi

challenging emotional reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I'm sitting here with chills and a deep sense of awe. Akwaeke Emezi has such skill, such lyricism, and such a unique way of sharing their truths. The writing is just ... mind blowing.

Check content warnings (I shared a list below) as this book includes some difficult & upsetting scenes, but outside of that care for yourself I recommend going in with a blank, open mind.

This is a story of identity, and trauma, and finding one's spirituality. I recommend reading Emezi's essays/interviews and delving a bit into Igbo culture and mythology in under to gain a better understanding of the content. 

CW: self harm, rape, suicide attempt, suicidal thoughts, mental illness, blood, toxic relationship, eating disorder, panic attacks, child abuse, physical abuse, car accident, homophobia, transphobia, infidelity