Freshwater

This was a powerful and intriguing exploration of ancestry, mental stability, trauma, inner turmoil and more. I loved the way each chapter was written from a part of the main character's fractured self.

Content warning for violence, sexual violence, abuse, drug/alcohol abuse, attempted suicide, self-harm, and related topics. I really liked the premise of this book, but reading it was not a particularly enjoyable experience for me. There were some really beautiful moments that I liked, but overall I felt like it was disjointed and I was confused the whole time. Even if that was the point, I don't like to be confused. I didn't like the chorus styl...read more

Freshwater is quite unlike any other book I've read. I found myself underlining many gorgeous lines and phrases that made my soul sing. While the writing drew me in, I didn't find myself as invested in the main character(s) as I wanted to be, especially considering it's a fictional autobiography. I will be checking out some more of the author's works.

First book of its kind. Never heard the word Obanje before reading but knew of them from my own cultural experiences. To relate to this novel spiritually was a very refreshing.

Started out rough and I didn’t like the book. But I like the topic. I stumbled on the many short phrases that gave a sense of staccato rhythm. Abrupt. Chaotic flow. Yet the book grew on me and i began again from p. 1 and re-read with more attention. This is a book to be digested by the reader. Given the fascinating topic, the cultural perspectives, and the unique and different writing style (method?), and the sad but endearing main character Ada,...read more