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melchior's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
inspiring
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
The most unappealing way to describe this book would be: half-deranged intellectuals have mental breakdowns across three (and a half) conversations. It's an accurate description, however, but that's not the point. Be warned, first of all: this book is a slow burner. Like I said, there are really only three scenes in the entire book/two stories. There is a lot of description and mental deliberation that is difficult to get your head around at times. I found myself struggling - especially with the first half - re-reading passages and not really looking forward to continue reading. But I had to. The book had me by the balls. If you consider yourself an intellectual, or academic, or something, and find yourself getting frustrated with and resistant to social norms, the university system, etcetera, this book will be a mirror to you. One of those actor's mirrors where the lights are on way too bright so you can see very little imperfection and blemish on yourself. It's ugly. And that's what makes this book so great. It is a poignant reflection for all of us who over-reflect. If you dare.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness and Religious bigotry
Moderate: Child death and Grief
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