After receiving plenty of great reviews and ratings for Invisible , yesterday, I went through a rite of passage, I got my first ever one-star review from a reviewer on Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/278254425 . It's okay, really, I'm fine with it. After all, everyone is entitled to their opinion. But what really got to me was the reason why! There is a gay character in my novel. Her name is Charlie and I love her. I think she adds dimension and depth to my novel, but the reviewer hated her. The reviewer's stated "I don't do gay." So I ask, is this really a review or an opportunity for the reviewer to tout her so-called Christian values? All I ask is for a fair review. Review the book as a whole. A one-star review is fine by me, especially when it comes from a narrowminded individual. I would have thought in this day and age that such prejudice and hatred would not be so prevalent.
I am so picking this book up.
ReplyDeleteAh, thanks so much, Marlena :)
ReplyDeleteLola's story is told with sensitivity to anyone who has felt like an outcast, wished to be as pretty, popular, and confident as those around them. The teen years are defined by a need for learning who we truly are. We do this by the process of comparison. How do I measure up to everyone else, where do I fit in, why am I different, and perhaps most importantly, how do people see me? For some, the answer is clear. They see disgust in people's eyes. Ppeople turn away. Worst of all, they see the need that some people have to inflict pain. They conclude - if that is how people see me, then I'd rather not be seen at all. One can't help but be moved by Lola's literal expression of that commonly felt desire.
ReplyDeleteEven so, Lola's story is anything but depressing. In the first couple of pages, we see sparks of moxie as she lifts her chin and strides into the sunshine, hairy legs, bulging belly and all. There is a suggestion of inner strength, which Lola taps as her story progresses. Her strength is fortified by her relationship with her grandmother who accepts Lola unconditionally and provides the anchor she needs. That connection is even more poignant when seen in the light of Lola's immediate family - her pretty, petite mother, her slim, good-looking father, and her beauty-obsessed sister, none of whom know the real Lola. It isn't their fault. Lola has never trusted them enough to open up and reveal herself. Her grandmother offers the richest, most fulfilling relationship in Lola's life.