“How we other-ize people, separate ourselves from them, and how this allows us to stop feeling compassion.”
———————Whew, boy, I am 100% sure that there was so much in this that went over my head. The writing was really beautiful… And there are so many quotes that struck me very deeply, above is just one example.
I enjoyed the story, and, as usual, I liked one story more than the other… but unusually my story preference switched halfway through. initially, I was really bought into Elana’s story about her drug addicted brother in the Appalachian’s and not so much in Alex’s story. But as Alex went missing, I was much more interested in his story than Elana finding him. I completely understood the allusion of the physical border to the borders we hold in our minds. The evolution of Elana and Alex as individuals was really compelling.
What I am sure I missed was the more political and philosophical messages. I am glad I read it… But I think this is one that probably needs a second read to fully absorb all that there is contained within.
Thanks to Algonquin books for the gifted copy. All opinions above are my own.
Have you ever been to Mexico? Is it on your bucket list?
PS – This is not a Black Author, I have committed this review date. Will make up the day with a Black Author in March for sure! ✊🏾✊🏿
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