A review by harry_lemon
Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin

dark emotional medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

5⭐
Excuse me, while I go and melt into a puddle...

Wow. I heard great things about this book and it did not disappoint. James Baldwin is a masterful writer; his ability to describe characters, setting, even feelings are breathtaking. There were so many moments in this novel that I couldn't believe that someone was capable of intelligently putting these concepts into words. I'm so grateful I got to read this book, it is a definite must-read for any gay man. Difficulties of defining love, life choices and consequences, these themes and so many more give this book such depth and nuance. I think you could read this multiple times and still find new things to appreciate it for. Amazing.