Idol, Burning (novella, complete)
So this is one of the books I got for Christmas, which I read over the course of last night / today. Really interesting read about idol fandom, tho on a deeply obsessive level. Certainly bits I could relate to even as someone whose interest is not nearly as deep as the MCs when it comes to my favourite actors, singers, etc and it was a fascinating read generally for how important having someone you admire, love and/or respect that much can become such a strong pillar of support in your life.
It's HEAVILY implied the MC is autistic or neurodiverse in some way as she struggles at school / work with everyday things, can't keep her room clean can't remember things, her obsession with the idol is a hyper-fixation if ever I've seen one - although what exactly she has going on is never named. She does have a diagnosis of some kind since the novel repeatedly refers to a hospital visit where she finally came to understand more about why she's the way she is. The afterword from the author explains that she has firsthand experience with this topic since her brother faced similar struggles to the MC, so it does feel quite authentic in how it's portrayed in that respect. I’m not sure if her brother is the reason she’s refrained from using a particular term in the name or if leaving it vague was part of the point (which I could see tbf, naming it would almost take away from everything the MC is and struggles with).
It can be difficult reading at times due to the downward spiral the MC gets herself into, but still something I would recommend wholeheartedly if you have any passing interest in idol culture. Being a novella it doesn’t outstay its welcome either.
