A review by gillianalice
Beartown by Fredrik Backman

challenging dark emotional hopeful reflective sad tense medium-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

4.75

I have...so many thoughts. This was an uncomfortable book in so many ways, from reading the details of Maya's rape to the awful yet expected consequences of her reporting Kevin to the police. Backman handled the entire situation so well. He could have easily glossed over it or reveled in it as so many authors are wont to do, but instead he presented it as simple truth. This is what happens when someone beloved commits an atrocity. Everyone just assumes he didn't do it, because even the idea that he might have is too much to bear. It's easier to assume that girl is lying. 

Final thoughts:

Ramona is the best. 

Maggan Lit can go jump off a cliff.

Benji is the goodest boy and it breaks my heart that he dies apparently.
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