What We Lose
What We Lose
Book Brief
224
Novel • Fiction
South Africa, America • Contemporary
2017
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
What We Lose by Zinzi Clemmons, published in 2017, is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the life of Thandi, a young woman navigating the emotional turmoil caused by her mother's breast cancer diagnosis and subsequent death. Using experimental techniques, the story unfolds through vignettes, dialogue, and song lyrics, portraying Thandi's struggles with identity, grief, and relationships. Themes include loss, racial identity, and single parenthood.
Melancholic
Emotional
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
14,812 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Zinzi Clemmons’ novel What We Lose is praised for its poignant exploration of identity, grief, and maternal bonds through a fragmented narrative and lyrical prose. Critics appreciate the emotional depth and visual storytelling, although some find its structure disjointed and challenging. Overall, Clemmons' debut is considered a powerful and thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read What We Lose?
Readers who appreciate introspective narratives and nuanced explorations of identity will enjoy What We Lose by Zinzi Clemmons. Fans of works like Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Swing Time by Zadie Smith will find Clemmons' blend of lyrical prose and poignant themes compelling. Perfect for those drawn to emotionally resonant stories.
14,812 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
What We Lose was Zinzi Clemmons's debut novel, and it received critical acclaim for its innovative narrative style and exploration of themes like identity and grief.
Zinzi Clemmons was inspired by her own bicultural upbringing and family experiences to write What We Lose, infusing the novel with authentic and intimate reflections.
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The novel was longlisted for the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction and was named a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle's John Leonard Prize.
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224
Novel • Fiction
South Africa, America • Contemporary
2017
Adult
18+ years
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