Misfit's Manifesto
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A self-defined misfit makes a powerful case for not fitting in - for recognizing the beauty, and...
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The Seasons of My Mother
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In this poetic and inspiring memoir, one of America’s most revered actresses uses the imagery of...
Biography
Ayiti Mon Amour (2016)
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A grieving teenager discovers he has a superpower, an old fisherman thinks the cure for his ailing...
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The Book of Delights: Essays
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“Ross Gay’s eye lands upon wonder at every turn, bolstering my belief in the countless small...
Goodbye, Sweet Girl: A Story of Domestic Violence and Survival
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In this brave and beautiful memoir, written with the raw honesty and devastating openness of The...
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Cruel Beautiful World in Books
Feb 13, 2018
This book is not what I expected, but it was a wonderful (although sometimes haunting) tale. Leavitt creates nuanced, well-developed characters who jump off the page. The book has a poignant sadness that stays with you, even after you've turned the last page. Somehow, I inadvertently read this one directly after [b:The Girls|26893819|The Girls|Emma Cline|https://d2arxad8u2l0g7.cloudfront.net/books/1464528839s/26893819.jpg|42856015], with each tale being set in a similar timeframe, with mentions and allusions to the Manson murders, free love, etc. I actually preferred this novel and its intricate plot and characters, to whom I found myself growing quite attached. The story unfolds from the point of view of Lucy, Charlotte, and Iris, which allows us to get to know each of them. Each is different and beautiful in their own way.
Overall, I loved most of this book. It slowed for me about 3/4 through, but recovered by the end. Some of the characters' actions are frustrating, but it does not take away from its almost poetic nature. Definitely recommend.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher and LibraryThing (thank you!).