Plot Summary

What We Lose

Zinzi Clemmons
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What We Lose

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2017

Book Brief

Zinzi Clemmons

What We Lose

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

South Africa, America • Contemporary

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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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

3.7

14,812 ratings

56%

Loved it

34%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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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 this

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.

3.7

14,812 ratings

56%

Loved it

34%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

South Africa, America • Contemporary

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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