First Reads: Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers

Review
I am unsure how I first saw this book. I think I just saw it recommended or highly rated in my library, and put it in mind. I always had an inclination to the less serious and lesser stake kinds of fiction, as it isn't as emotionally heavy while also being grabbing for me to finish. This book, despite being more maturer compared to the last fiction book I read, is still one of those books. It does tackle murder, but, as is already spoiled in descriptions of the book, happens pretty early on. The characters in the book are interesting in how they are written. They undeniably have some grounded baggage and unfair situations that they are stuck in. It never truly feels like the book is mired in such angst, and I think its due to two things. The length of the book, and especially each chapter, is not particularly long. In fact its a very comfortable read for somewhat to sit down for 30mins to read a chapter a day. The second is the comedic tone. Each characters shortcomings, whether explicitly mentioned, or implicitly found by the reader, lead to relatable humor as we see how they interact with the world and their thoughts. The grounded nature of their struggles benefits the light hearted tone, as what those struggles are can be relatable to one person or another. Expectations of a parent to a child, a child's thoughts on their parents as grown adults, self-doubt, regret, and where to go. I sure a lot of people have experienced some of these thoughts at one point or another. For however low the book goes however, it is never one to languish in it for too long. In the end, the book has an happy ending, and I am not complaining. I think that is what I like about more light hearted, or optimistic stories. They don't drown themselves in sadness, and spring off what darkness they created into a brighter future.

Overall Recommendation: Comedic and grounded. Those looking for a more serious story should look elsewhere. Those who are fine with a more light hearted take on everyday struggles, converging on a rather alien occurrence will find joy in this relatively short read.

Buy it or Borrow It?: I borrowed this book. Should not be too much of a surprise at this point. I am kind of on a tight budget. Still, I think this book is worth being bought.