Yolk by Mary H.K. Choi really slaps. I had no idea what I was really getting into when I started it, but wow, I am blown away. FYI, this is a really heavy book, so be sure you are in the headspace for that going into it. I was drawn to Yolk by the bright yellow cover – actually, all of Choi’s covers are gorgeous. Also, I am such a fan of stories about sisters.
Set in New York City, Yolk is a New Adult contemporary about Jayne Baek who is a fashion merchandising student. She lives in an illegal sublet with her not-boyfriend Jeremy. Jayne spends her time at school, working, and getting drunk. Her older sister June also lives in New York City. However, Jayne and June are estranged. That is, until one day June walks back into Jayne’s life with some news.
You see, June has uterine cancer. And so, the two sisters are thrown back together with Jayne staying intermittently with June in her fancy high rise apartment. June is successful and has money. However, as Jayne learns not all is as it seems. Also, while June has cancer, Jayne is also suffering with an eating disorder.
I inhaled Yolk. I started this book on Saturday and finished it on Sunday. All 400 pages in less than two days. I’ll admit, this was a hard book to read. Jayne and June do not have a super healthy relationship. At moments both are really toxic people. Also, Jayne has such an unhealthy relationship with her roommate/hook up Jeremy who basically just uses her. And she’s got a horrible relationship with food. We get all the context though on the food issues which was helpful in navigating this story.
Oh and there’s also some definite family issues back in Texas. Still, at the end of the day, what matters is very clear. I loved that although this book is SO heavy, it ends on a hopeful note. Actually, the ending is quite beautiful and so well done. I know that I will now be back to read more by Mary H.K. Choi as the writing and characterization in Yolk was just so solid and full of depth.
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I picked up this book last week, so I’m glad it was that engrossing. I was drawn to it because of the sisters’ opposite stations in life.
Looking forward to diving into this one!