Freshwater

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 style narration of the ogbanje, but I really liked the sections where Ada would talk with her other selves. I liked the incorporation of Igbo (I think that's the language, Google didn't tell me when I used the translate function), but I wish there had been a glossary in the book for readers to look through. This book has gotten stellar reviews from others, but I preferred the Death of Vivek Oji.

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, IMO this is a piece of art, an “A” novel, a worthwhile read. Unless you happen to find the literary examination of schizoaffective disorders uninteresting.

A tale of self discovery that borders on extremely intense reality and dances with a bit of the religious and mythological all at once. Not a story for the faint of heart but very well written and a gut-wrenching journey.