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Adore! Magic realism, interesting perspectives, and corn fields FINALLY used as something positive instead of the scenes of horror movies. Characters rendered intriguing by unorthodox characteristics: Polish, disability in recognizing faces, etc. A mild comparison to a well known myth emerges late in the game, wasn't overwhelmingly trying to stay true the specifics, but subtly referenced them instead. (I saw you, pomegranate filling in Polish cookies).
Only reason it wasn't five stars: it was a little slow in the beginning. It was interesting, but it wasn't until maybe half of the way through that I found myself unable to put the book down (hence writing this in the wee hours of the morning-- I stayed up all night to finish it because I HAD to know what was coming next).
Verdict: Yes. Very yes. Different, page turning deliciousness.
Only reason it wasn't five stars: it was a little slow in the beginning. It was interesting, but it wasn't until maybe half of the way through that I found myself unable to put the book down (hence writing this in the wee hours of the morning-- I stayed up all night to finish it because I HAD to know what was coming next).
Verdict: Yes. Very yes. Different, page turning deliciousness.
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I was 100 pages in before this book hooked me. Normally I would have already given up since I have TONS of stuff on my TBR pile, but the cover of this book made me stick with it. Yeah I know that's kind of a lame reason, but this is one of my all-time favorite book covers. I also read an interview with the author and some of her comments intrigued me. I'm glad I kept reading. I have to admit though, I'm not sure who I would recommend this book to- I guess a patient reader who likes stories to unfold slowly with interesting characters.
Moving story. Considering the pacing in the rest of the book the resolution was rather abrupt. That abruptness is my only major issue.
Bone Gap is a complicated story full of mystery & magic, but is also one that teaches great lessons & holds deep meanings. Laura Ruby has crafted a story that leaves the reader thinking very deeply, without having written too deeply & seriously herself. This story is very fun & exciting but also includes diverse characters & some wonderfully creative writing & ideas. I loved this book very much; it's a very important book for reasons I will go into more detail about on my blog. Everyone should read this book.
Extended Review: https://wp.me/p8MbIo-nP
Extended Review: https://wp.me/p8MbIo-nP
So I started this book without knowing a single thing about it. I had apparently added it to my "to read" list a while ago and I don't remember why and I decided not to read the blurb about it and just start reading. You think it's about a small corn town and living there and feeling different but then, bam, magic! This isn't a spoiler because if you actually read anything about the book, unlike me, you would know this was a book of magical realism. This book probably isn't for everyone but I found the story compelling and I enjoyed the weird and maybe confusing fantastical elements woven in. Underlying it was still about being in a small town and feeling different, and I really enjoyed it.
adventurous
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
This book was somewhat mysterious but also had the feel of that classic "high school relationship" book at times as well. I was very engaged in the story and was able to read it fairly quickly. I will say that the ending took me a little by surprise but overall I liked this book. I read it after I heard that it won the 2016 Printz award.