[Subdue] Real Differences by S.L. Lim **

[Tien]

This was not a happy book.

Ok, I knew it wasn't going to be an easy read to start with and while we were sort of told near the beginning a part of the ending then with all the foreshadowing, it was predictable; it was a crushing ending nonetheless. It just leaves me feeling utterly frustrated and helpless! Argh!

The book was primarily told from the perspective of Nick, "middle-class, clever and white", who's best friend, Andie is the daughter of Indo-Chinese refugee (anyone remember the '98 riots?). Andie, however, was born in Australia and while she is seen to have a very Western personality, inside she is quite torn between East and West. The story mostly revolves around Andie and readers do get perspectives from Andie and those around her. There were many valid points made about racism but, just like Andie, I wonder how far can you take these things? How do you work with unconscious bias?

Meantime, her cousin found his way to faith yet managed to fumble his way to destruction.

Again, NOT a happy book! I feel like immitating Andie in her rage and throw this at the wall.