Review of Against the Glass

[Pulane Ramathe]

This sounds like such an amazing book... I would love to read it so I can see Candy's journey post abortion and how she tackled this issue and many other issues pertaining to the inequality that is faced by women and I would truly love to see whether she ended up achieving her goal to being a doctor seeing that it was such a male dominated industry at the time

[Elizabeth McNutt]

This review and the historical novel reveal life as it was before Roe vs. Wade. It is a telling of the times before and the times after this reversal. The timeliness of the story fits with the political arena and the many challenges facing women and the courts. This should be read by all to understand the momentous decisions being made now about women and their control of their own destinies.

[Samantha Green Tolson]

This review made me download this book and add it to my Bookshelves to be read list! As a woman, I have a high respect and interest in how history has changed the way that women are viewed in society. Abortion is still an issue just as much today as it was back in 1966. Your review paints of very clear picture of what this book has to offer and provides an excellent trigger warning! Thank you for providing a review that will encourage the younger generations to read and understand more about women's history in this society!

[Sophie 0]

This is a convincing review! When I saw this was the book of the day, I noticed it was historical fiction and I steered away from it. It’s the last week of summer and I wanted a light book where I didn’t have to think too much. However, I am a big supporter of women’s right to choose. I also had a friend in high school who went through a very similar situation as the main character. My friend hid her pregnancy for months and when her parents found out, they made her get a late term abortion which left her unable to have children. Because this is a topic of importance to me, I just might put down my current romance novel and opt for this book even though it sounds like a more intense read.

[Joule Mwendwa]

Women deserve fair opportunities in society. They, too, should be allowed to chase their dreams. Although I haven't completed the book, I guess Candy's story is a reflection of the gender state in society and the changes that are needed. I recommend it, and you wrote a nice review too.

[Meaghan Aplin]

Thank you for your detailed review. Although I found it difficult to stay focused while reading the sample text, your review has me rethinking my decision to shelve this book.
We must acknowledge the history of women’s rights in order to protect them, sometimes this requires acknowledging hard truths.

[Emma Jane Grey]

An intriguing and emotional historical fiction centred around themes of gender equality - the sample has got me hooked and I look forward to reading more!

[Mayuri Kotalawala]

The writing was poetic and realistically painted the struggles a young woman faced trying to step outside the mold and find equality with men.

-I especially like when things sound poetic. I really enjoyed reading the rest of your review too. Thank you.

[Kibet Hillary]

I am a huge fan of historical fiction, and it will be an enthralling journey to follow the story of this trailblazing character, Candy, and her determination to make it despite the seemingly insurmountable odds. Thanks for the tantalizing review.

[Singhjii123]

While "Against the Glass" by Linda M. Habib offers an engaging premise with the potential to explore important themes of women's rights, healthcare, and societal expectations, the execution falls short in several key aspects. The novel's reliance on clichéd narrative tropes, underdeveloped characters, and heavy-handed symbolism ultimately undermine its potential impact.

One of the major drawbacks of the book is its reliance on stereotypical character arcs. Candy Krzyzanowski's journey from defying societal norms to pursuing a career in the medical field is a familiar trope in stories centered around women's empowerment. While this theme is undoubtedly important, the lack of originality in her trajectory dampens the impact of her struggles. The character of Candy feels more like a vessel for these themes rather than a fully realized individual, making it difficult for readers to emotionally invest in her story.

Additionally, the symbolism of glass throughout the narrative, while initially intriguing, becomes overused and heavy-handed. The repeated references to glass in various forms, from ice-skating ponds to kaleidoscopes, start to feel forced and contrived. Instead of enhancing the story, this symbolism distracts from the characters' development and the broader themes, ultimately detracting from the overall reading experience.

Furthermore, the supporting characters, including Candy's best friend Brenda, suffer from underdevelopment. Brenda's potential as a feisty and impactful figure in Candy's journey is squandered by her limited presence and minor role in the plot. Her contributions to historical changes feel superficial and do not add significant depth to the narrative.

One of the most challenging scenes in the novel—the depiction of Candy's abortion—is undoubtedly gritty and powerful. However, its graphic nature and intense portrayal may alienate some readers, potentially overshadowing the broader message the book aims to convey. The harshness of this scene may undermine the novel's accessibility and make it difficult for some readers to engage with the story on a deeper level.

In conclusion, "Against the Glass" tackles important themes but struggles with execution. The overuse of clichéd narrative arcs, heavy-handed symbolism, and underdeveloped characters weaken the impact of the story. While it attempts to address significant issues, its lack of originality and depth hinder its ability to resonate with a wide audience.

[Simran2711]

Abortion or any other illegal step is not the solution bcz it also cause a death of a baby in mother's womb.And parents have to understand their child because it is hard for mother's, daughter,sisters to live in a male dominated society.

[Singhjii123]

While "Against the Glass" by Linda M. Habib offers an engaging premise with the potential to explore important themes of women's rights, healthcare, and societal expectations, the execution falls short in several key aspects. The novel's reliance on clichéd narrative tropes, underdeveloped characters, and heavy-handed symbolism ultimately undermine its potential impact.

One of the major drawbacks of the book is its reliance on stereotypical character arcs. Candy Krzyzanowski's journey from defying societal norms to pursuing a career in the medical field is a familiar trope in stories centered around women's empowerment. While this theme is undoubtedly important, the lack of originality in her trajectory dampens the impact of her struggles. The character of Candy feels more like a vessel for these themes rather than a fully realized individual, making it difficult for readers to emotionally invest in her story.

Additionally, the symbolism of glass throughout the narrative, while initially intriguing, becomes overused and heavy-handed. The repeated references to glass in various forms, from ice-skating ponds to kaleidoscopes, start to feel forced and contrived. Instead of enhancing the story, this symbolism distracts from the characters' development and the broader themes, ultimately detracting from the overall reading experience.

Furthermore, the supporting characters, including Candy's best friend Brenda, suffer from underdevelopment. Brenda's potential as a feisty and impactful figure in Candy's journey is squandered by her limited presence and minor role in the plot. Her contributions to historical changes feel superficial and do not add significant depth to the narrative.

One of the most challenging scenes in the novel—the depiction of Candy's abortion—is undoubtedly gritty and powerful. However, its graphic nature and intense portrayal may alienate some readers, potentially overshadowing the broader message the book aims to convey. The harshness of this scene may undermine the novel's accessibility and make it difficult for some readers to engage with the story on a deeper level.

In conclusion, "Against the Glass" tackles important themes but struggles with execution. The overuse of clichéd narrative arcs, heavy-handed symbolism, and underdeveloped characters weaken the impact of the story. While it attempts to address significant issues, its lack of originality and depth hinder its ability to resonate with a wide audience.

[Nemanja Jankovic]

"Against the Glass" by Linda M. Habib is a historical fictional novel centered on Candy. After she had an abortion, she sank into depression. This traumatic experience will encourage her to become a doctor. The book is professionally edited.

[Avid_Reviewer]

The way Candy's journey is described in the review to break free from traditional roles and societal expectations is truly captivating. Your attention to the symbolic use of glass throughout the narrative, representing the fragility of life and the challenges faced by women, showcases your keen observation.

[Da_JumogM]

This book sounds inspirational. I'm sure that it was not easy for Candy to overcome her depression, found something meaningful to hold onto, and still persevere in the fight for the female in a male-dominated profession. Great review.