2017
WISE Score
Amazon
Minimalist poetry for the soul that’s seen some stuff—think of it as a starter kit for healing, provided you’re okay with some heavy lifting.
4.7
4.7View →Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)
This is the book every 'sad girl' (and guy) had on their nightstand in 2018. It’s accessible, which is its greatest strength and its biggest critique. If you want deep, complex metaphors, look elsewhere.
However, if you want someone to put words to your pain in three lines or less, this is it. It's a quick read, but the themes linger. Just be ready for the triggers—it's not 'light' reading by any stretch of the imagination, even if there are only ten words on the page.
Best for ages 16 and up. While the reading level is easy, the emotional weight and specific references to sexual trauma make this a book for older teens and adults.
While the book ultimately lands on growth and self-love, it spends a significant amount of time in the 'wilting' and 'falling' stages, which involve heavy themes of depression and grief. It’s emotionally mature rather than 'family-friendly' wholesome.
Kaur’s minimalist style and line drawings invited a whole generation to try their hand at poetry. It's simple, but it encourages readers to see their own lives through a creative lens.
Contains raw and potentially triggering descriptions of sexual assault, trauma, and the physical/emotional toll of heartbreak. It is not 'safe' for a younger or sensitive reader to stumble into without preparation.
Excellent for developing empathy and understanding the immigrant experience. It tackles the complexities of femininity and healing with a directness that resonates deeply with its target audience.
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