Reviews

Boy Swallows Universe by Trent Dalton

cinnamon_sputnik's review against another edition

fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.0

zozosbooks's review

5.0

I think this is my favorite book I’ve ever read, the descriptions are beautiful and I got lost in every little word and felt so deeply for every single character and every little reveal. Wasn’t a single dull moment in the story it was all just real darn good

annaavian's review against another edition

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful lighthearted mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

A book that offers a unique blend of drama, comedy, and a touch of the magical, though it might initially confound readers. The opening chapters are disorienting, and their significance only becomes clear as you delve deeper into the narrative. Dalton's writing navigates the chaotic and sometimes unbelievable story line, making it both engaging and credible. 

The novel's mix of lighthearted comedy and heavy drama provides a refreshing balance, preventing the story from becoming too dark. The plot is often wild yet believable, combining many different elements that surprisingly work well together. The narrative pushes boundaries, resulting in an original and captivating novel.

However, the magical elements hinted at early on, especially through August’s strange comments, are disappointing. These elements, which could have added a layer of depth and wonder, are either left unexplored or end up being rather mundane in their explanations. Despite this, the novel remains a compelling read, marked by its distinctive voice and inventive storytelling.

rachjaki744's review against another edition

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful mysterious reflective sad tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

hbright's review against another edition

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful inspiring reflective tense medium-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? Yes

5.0

kellygoesgeocaching's review against another edition

4.0

It took a chapter or two to feel comfortable with the structure of the text, but once immersed, the unusual nature became unnoticeable. I found the book interesting and different, but ended up reading the ending twice as I felt like it was rushed and I missed details.

mabelwood's review

emotional funny hopeful mysterious reflective slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

serioserio's review against another edition

challenging dark funny reflective sad medium-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? Yes

4.5

maevehelena's review against another edition

adventurous hopeful mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

As an Australian this book Gad enough that I could relate to the book but was abstract enough that I wanted to know what was going to happen. The writing was truly beautiful would highly recommend!

hayley07's review against another edition

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective sad tense medium-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

5.0