After She Died

My Thoughts on After She Died

"After She Died" is a short, punch-to-the-gut story that definitely left me reeling. It's not a light read by any stretch, delving into some seriously dark themes, but it's also a story about a father's love and the crushing weight of societal injustice.

First Impressions

Right from the start, the novel throws you into a world of poverty and desperation. The protagonist, a disabled trash picker raising an adopted daughter, is immediately sympathetic. The writing style, which I found straightforward and unadorned, only amplified the raw emotion of the story. I was immediately invested in his struggle.

What Works Well

The novel's strength lies in its unflinching portrayal of the protagonist's love for his daughter. Despite his circumstances, he's determined to provide for her, and the lengths he goes to are genuinely heart-wrenching. The author clearly had a vision for this story, and they executed it effectively, creating a narrative that is both bitter and thought-provoking. The translation is also well done, maintaining a natural flow and avoiding clunky phrasing. The story evokes empathy, and the author has a clear goal of allowing readers to be more emphatic.

Areas of Concern

While the novel's raw emotion is powerful, it can also be overwhelming. The constant barrage of injustice and the protagonist's helplessness might be too much for some readers. The ending, which some might find unsatisfying, underscores the bleakness of the world the story depicts. Also, the "second chance" element, facilitated by a mysterious app, felt somewhat underdeveloped. I personally felt that the app didn't add much to the plot, other than create different plots for the protagonist to experience.

Final Verdict

"After She Died" is a short, impactful story that explores themes of love, loss, and societal injustice. While the bleakness and potentially triggering content might not be for everyone, it's a powerful and thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you finish it. I'd recommend it with caution, urging readers to be aware of the tags and prepared for an emotional rollercoaster. I'm giving it a solid 3 out of 5 stars.