Review of Journey To The Heartland

Post by **Kajori Sheryl Paul** » 13 Feb 2025, 22:56

Hanwei's journey as a gay man sounds interesting.

Thank you for the great review.

Asario Fox · Post by **Asario Fox** » 13 Feb 2025, 23:06

Annabell Samuel’s review of Journey to the Heartland thoughtfully captures the novel’s nuanced exploration of identity, family, and societal prejudice. By highlighting Hanwei’s multifaceted journey—balancing his sexuality with cultural expectations and personal resilience—the review underscores the book’s strength in weaving LGBTQ+ themes into broader narratives of self-discovery and systemic discrimination. Xiaolong Huang’s ability to humanize struggles like racial bias and familial pressure, while avoiding reductive stereotypes, makes this a compelling read for advocates of empathy and social progress. A timely reminder that stories like Hanwei’s are not just about orientation but universal courage. Well-analyzed and deeply resonant!

Post by **Anu Anand** » 14 Feb 2025, 00:26

This seems like a deep and engaging book that explores Hanwei’s journey as a gay man, along with family struggles and discrimination. Books like this can help raise awareness and reduce some of the taboos around these topics. Congrats on BOTD!

Jack Winnick · Post by **mrlefty0706** » 14 Feb 2025, 00:29

"Journey To the Heartland" by Xiaolong Huang is a story about the world being more tolerable about somethings that used to be taboo, sexual orientations. Whites marrying Blacks did not become legal until the late 1900s. Many countries have made it easier for people to express their sexualities. The main character in this story is Hanwei, a Chinese tech genius, and we will follow his gay journey. Hanwei’s father abuse his mother and he noticed that his father was attracted to men and Hanwei eventually had the same attraction. This book is not for people that are prejudice against LGBQT+ people since LGBQT+ is at the heart of this story. As a society, we need to find ways to eliminate racial and sexual discrimination. Jay, one of Hanwei’s romantic interests had a problem being a marine because of his affection for Hanwei. He also had issues with the police when they harassed him for being black. We need to create an understanding society and tolerate all people no matter their religion, race or sexuality. Sadly, this has become much more difficult after the executive orders Trump has issued. White supremacists are not going to change their ways but they will be dealt with on judgement day when Jesus punishes them for the crimes against humanity they committed. The book deserves the 5 out of 5-star rating. Readers, please keep an open mind.

Ailakhu Yusau Aizhebiomon · Post by **Ailakhu Yusau Aizhebiomon** » 14 Feb 2025, 00:31

Although, I have my reservations for the storyline, especially the subject matter. However, I think one must begin to have an open mind to understand why some people do what they do. Congrats to the author on being the #BOTD!

Lene Lena · Post by **Lene Lena** » 14 Feb 2025, 00:34

Thank you for your insightful review! It’s refreshing to see a narrative that explores complex themes beyond sexuality while centering on Hanwei’s growth. Your acknowledgment of the author’s balanced approach is appreciated, as it invites readers to engage with diverse experiences and perspectives within the LGBTQ+ community.

Holly Black · Post by **Irene Sejas** » 14 Feb 2025, 00:38

I love books with LGBTQ+ representation and try to fill my bookshelves with these kind of themes, so I feel like I would love this book. I also think the view into how being gay may affect the protagonist (considering he is Chinese, especially when in some places being part of this community is still seen as wrong) is a nice change from other books of this genre, I love learning or getting some insight into other cultures and I feel like this book would be a perfect read.

Dayana Alvarado 1 · Post by **Dayana Alvarado 1** » 14 Feb 2025, 00:42

Although we have come a long way, the fight for true freedom to love whoever you want, to express yourself without fear, to live without oppression is still more alive than ever.

Bhimlendra Kumar 1 · Post by **Bhimlendra Kumar 1** » 14 Feb 2025, 00:47

The introduction you have written in your review is commendable. Your review is also balanced. The disclaimer you have provided is appropriate as well. Journey To The Heartland" is written by Xiaolong Huang.

The book is about a person named Hanwei who has an inclination towards homosexuality; along with this, there is also a beautiful description of Chinese culture.

Post by **Reva Parker** » 14 Feb 2025, 00:51

Thank you for your informational review. I'm glad you liked the book. I have added it to my list of books to read, but honestly, I will have to really think about it. It's not because of it being about gays, but because of the abuse of children in particular and his mom's abuse from her husband. From the sample, it sounds like he was bullied in several different ways and that is hard for me to read at times. I'm hoping he has been able to find happiness and writing this book was therapeutic.

Post by **Sandeep Moses Arulnesan** » 14 Feb 2025, 01:30

Journey to The Heartland is about a Chinese guy's gay journey from a rough childhood. I don't know if I'll be able to enjoy this book. I'll have to skip this one. Thanks for the review. Congrats on the BOTD!

Abiodunakinola · Post by **Abiodunakinola** » 14 Feb 2025, 02:06

This book goes beyond a simple LGBTQ+ narrative, offering a deep exploration of family dynamics, cultural expectations, and personal resilience. By depicting Hanwei’s struggles within a traditional Chinese family, the book provides a nuanced perspective on how societal norms shape individual identities. Nice review.

Post by **Atieno Magero** » 14 Feb 2025, 02:08

This seems like an amazing book. The author tackles trauma and discrimination well in the story. The story seems well written with great character development. Congratulations on making botd!

Leonie Vermaak · Post by **Leonie Vermaak** » 14 Feb 2025, 02:24

I'm definitely reading this book. I'm interested to learn more about the Chinese culture. I also curious to learn about Hanwei's journey and challenges. Being part if the LGBTQ+ community myself I know that it's not always easy, and one thing I've learned is that for men it's even harder to be accepted. Thanks for a great review. Congrats on BOTD and thanks for the free book

Azubuike J Azi · Post by **Azubuike J Azi** » 14 Feb 2025, 02:37

"Journey To The Heartland" by Xiaolong Huang. Thanks for your perfect review! the review made it to who ever is interested in reading this book. Although I'm not good at reading books like this type but congratulations to the author for standing out BOTD