Pratik

Erlick's second novel (for me) tackles grief more directly. Centered around three characters who are forced by circumstances to take a road trip to seek answers from the same destination. We learn more about the characters as they get closer and also through the other people they meet along the way. The first two-thirds were strong, so in comparison, I found the last third unsatisfying.

Gilbert covers a lot of ground exploring incidences of women exploitation in music, entertainment, reality TV, and the even porn. The more things get better, the worse things are for women. Even the ones with power aren’t spared. Some of the things mentioned in the book are truly revolting and disgusting.

Brilliantly written, it explores the frustrations yet the deep love mothers have for their daughters. I also love how Ng highlights the different paths that smart women take in their lives in the face of society's judgment and its expectations.