What Becomes of the Broken Hearted? : Book Review

"What Becomes of the Broken Hearted" is a compelling and profound novel penned by Alan Duff, which continues the story of the Heke family introduced in his earlier book, "Once Were Warriors." The narrative is set in New Zealand and delves into the lives of the Hekes, who struggle to find their place in a society plagued by poverty, violence, and racial tension.

The book primarily focuses on Grace Heke and her children, as they embark on individual journeys of self-discovery and redemption. Alan Duff skillfully depicts the impact of domestic violence, addiction, and social disadvantage on the characters, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by marginalized communities. Through his vivid and emotive writing, the author explores the depths of human despair, resilience, and the potential for transformative change.

Duff's writing style is raw and unapologetic, as he gives a voice to the challenging and often distressing experiences encountered by the characters. The dialogue is gritty and authentic, effectively capturing the intensity of their emotions and struggles. The author fearlessly tackles difficult themes such as poverty, racism, and abuse, without shying away from their complexity. However, amidst these dark occurrences, there is also a glimmer of hope, as the characters find strength, support, and ultimately, a chance at redemption.

One of the notable strengths of this novel lies in its exploration of cultural identity and the significance of community. Duff delves into the clashes between Maori and Pakeha cultures, shedding light on the tensions and prejudices that exist. The characters' attempts to reconcile their cultural heritage with the challenges of modern society offer a thought-provoking commentary on the complexities of identity.

In summary, "What Becomes of the Broken Hearted" is a gritty and emotionally charged novel that provides an unyielding portrayal of the struggles faced by marginalized communities. Alan Duff's writing is powerful and evocative, and his characters are deeply nuanced, allowing readers to connect with their experiences on a visceral level. This book serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable spirit that can emerge from even the bleakest of circumstances.

What are readers saying?

The novel "What Becomes of the Broken Hearted" by Alan Duff has elicited a range of responses from readers. Opinions on the book have been diverse, highlighting the mixed reception it has received.

In the initial paragraph, several reviewers praised Duff's storytelling abilities and his talent for exploring complex themes. They found the characters relatable and well-developed, and the depiction of emotions was realistic, fostering a strong connection with readers. Additionally, the dark and gritty portrayal of New Zealand's underbelly was lauded for adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.

However, some readers felt that the book was excessively weighty and lacked a sense of hope. The constant themes of violence, abuse, and despair were overwhelming, making the reading experience difficult at times. While acknowledging the importance of shedding light on these issues, they desired a more balanced approach that offered moments of respite and optimism.

Moving on, the third paragraph addresses criticism regarding the book's pacing and structure. Some reviewers found certain parts of the story to be slow, making it challenging to maintain interest. Furthermore, the narrative jumping between characters and timelines was deemed confusing and disrupted the flow of the story.

However, other readers appreciated the rawness and honesty of Duff's writing style. They commended his ability to address societal issues while delving into the complex emotions of the characters. The book's thought-provoking nature was highly praised, as readers found themselves reflecting on the themes long after finishing the story.

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