Our Missing Hearts
Ng, CelesteIn a disturbingly imaginable future USA that vows to uphold 'American culture' through its draconian laws that restrict what can be read or viewed, 12-year-old Bird Gardener and his father know to lie low. Three years earlier, Bird's mother Margaret, a Chinese American poet regarded as a dissident, disappeared, but when Bird receives a mysterious note, he doesn't hesitate to go in search of her.
Both heart-breaking and hopeful, and with its complex themes and lyrical writing, this is a cautionary tale of the importance of words and storytelling, the unbreakable bonds of family and the power of collective small actions.
This title is also offered as part of the Narrative Muse Book Club.
View this title on the Narrative Muse website
Pages
335
335
Year
2022
2022
Reviews
02-09-2024
Loved the style of writing. The numerous relationships explored were interesting. We all thought it was quite scary - not that far fetched fiction ( in the U.S. and the rise of Trumpism) and far right politics around the globe. We also talked about the removal of children from indigenous peoples due to parents not 'fitting in'!
11-07-2024
We all loved this - superbly written, heart-rending, but above all thought-provoking in its too-close-to-home dystopian themes.
25-06-2024
Everyone in the group was pleased to have read this book.
28-05-2024
It was beautifully written,but the slow pace and being dystopian was hard for some to keep at it.
08-04-2024
We all agreed it was a good idea for a book but that it didnt actually translate into a good book. Most found the book an easy read and felt it wasnt hard to see how the premise would be possible. All those who had read any of the author's previous books were disappointed. Most felt the characters were poor and therefore they did not really engage with the story. Most did not like the ending, feeling it wasnt really one.
08-03-2024
A story that touched on relatable topics, especially our opinions on how a mother should/would act or give up, how out of control some situations can be, and sacrifices made for selfless or selfish reasons This book caused some deep discussions, with 70% of the group liking it and 30% not liking the story. Interesting and thought provoking.
02-11-2023
Highly recommended by everyone, excellent read, almost too close to home. "Utterly compelling and scary". So relevant to our times, very thought provoking.