Wow this was a raw story that a lot of people in the lgbtq+ community can relate to while reading. The mother was so annoying and hypocritical.

The whole time that she was reflecting towards the end of the book with the nursing home and her inner homophobia we never got to see her challenge her hypocrisy. Which, I guess makes the story more raw in a sense but still would be interested to see.

I did like the stories comment on being elderly and what happens in society when someone no longer has a purpose.

The scene when the reporters came to interview Jen was a good moment that showed how she was seen as disposable since she could not give what they wanted from her. Another moment in the book was towards the end when Jen is in the last nursing home and how the carer says they're all just going to die there always.

I think this book also discusses well how care taking is a commodity in society and that due to capitalism people who need care do not get the proper care they need.

Whilst not an easy read (especially as a bi woman) because the story is told through the pov of a homophobic mother, I'm glad I read this book. This short novel has a certain ambition, trying to examine several aspects of society. Homophobia, heteronormativity, ageism, poverty/low-paid job, loneliness, generational trauma (particularly passed on from mother to daughter), traditionalist society, the treatment of patients in a retirement home, ...

Maybe not perfect, this book still is quite significant, an important read. This story may feel like it's been done before but to me, growing up in a rural environment with homophobic family members, this is sadly a little too relatable (even down to the care assitant job).

Die Perspektive finde ich interessant. Fand es aber dadurch, dass ich eher wie die Tochter bin, sehr schwer, mich mit der Erzählerin zu identifizieren. Glaube, es ist ein Buch, das mir mehr und mehr zeigt, je tiefer ich darüber nachdenke.

✨ Gifted ✨

This is a book I kept picking up and then changing my mind on, so I was so grateful when my friend bought me a copy 🥹

Content warnings are included below!

I have been very interested in reading Korean literature and recently read ‘Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982’ which was also translated by Jamie Chang (thank you) ❤️ 

This book also touches upon feminism. I also came to learn more about motherhood and Korean societal pressures to conform. 

I really liked Jen and Lane throughout the story, and even Green’s mum warmed me. She thought she had made her mind up but no, people can always change their minds and be more forgiving 🥹

So happy to see queer Korean literature as well 🏳️‍🌈 4 out of 5 stars for me, thank you ✨