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A review by jae_28
Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry by Joya Goffney
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This was great! I only expected a cute read, but the emotions and messages that came with it were powerful and left an impression on me. I loved Quinn’s growth and adored the new bonds she made. The only thing that bothered me was that Matt felt more like a throw-away character to advance the story rather than Quinn’s best friend. He only showed up when it was convenient for the plot. We don’t know what comes of their relationship in the end either, unfortunately.
My favorite thing about this story was the use of lists. Some were simple and straight to the point, and they seem that way at first until you start getting to know Quinn better, then they become so much deeper; they’re poetic, lyrical. They brought out the writer in her and that’s another thing I wished was explored more. We’re left to assume she (maybe) wanted to be a writer or that was a path she’d most likely take. I’d have loved to see her leaning into that outside of only writing lists, especially since she did love to write. It would’ve been amazing to see that evolution.