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A review by amy_reading_23
Lonely Castle in the Mirror by Mizuki Tsujimura
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
This book made my cry! It's such a good read that explores bullying, mental illness and other complex situations that many teenagers have to deal with.
The ending is definitely emotional so be prepared for that. Overall I enjoyed this, the magical realism elements were interesting and the book took a few twists and turns - some of which I'd guessed at, but some which were completely unexpected.
I think it delt well with the trauma that is being bullied and how that can effect people's lives and self worth. It deals with complicated emotions and situations well and was a compelling read. I often found myself thinking about if after putting it down.
I wouldn't say it's a very action- packed or plot focused book, but there are some interesting plot developments that do keep you interested.
The book raises important topics of mental health and especially what its like dealing with mental illness and stigma as a kid in Japanese schools.
I had guessed that they were in different time periods and that maybe Aki was the teacher that linked them all - but I had not guessed that the wolf girl was Rion's sister!! That was the bit that made me cry and I thought it was so well done. It is never really explained how she created this world, but like with a lot of Japanese magical realism I've read, you kind of just have to go with it.
The ending is definitely emotional so be prepared for that. Overall I enjoyed this, the magical realism elements were interesting and the book took a few twists and turns - some of which I'd guessed at, but some which were completely unexpected.
I think it delt well with the trauma that is being bullied and how that can effect people's lives and self worth. It deals with complicated emotions and situations well and was a compelling read. I often found myself thinking about if after putting it down.
I wouldn't say it's a very action- packed or plot focused book, but there are some interesting plot developments that do keep you interested.
The book raises important topics of mental health and especially what its like dealing with mental illness and stigma as a kid in Japanese schools.
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Body shaming, Bullying, Child death, Emotional abuse, Fatphobia, Physical abuse, Sexual assault, Suicidal thoughts, Medical content, Grief, Suicide attempt, and Gaslighting