A review by whatithinkaboutthisbook
The Book of Records by Madeleine Thien

challenging informative reflective slow-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

Book Review The Book of Records by Madeleine Thien 

 

A philosophy lovers dream, this is an intricate exploration of the purpose and meaning of life. Where time is ambiguous and the past, present and future overlap in a haunting and poetic narrative.  Thien invites readers into a world where characters drift across timelines, and the present seems timeless. 

 

The story is centred by Lina and her father, who flee Foshan, as great swaths of their homeland are flooding.  The arrive at a place known only as  “The Sea”, a transitory haven for travellers, before continuing their journey.  But for Lina, it becomes a place of limbo, where time marches on but life stands still, as her father refuses to move forward.  A small community is formed with the travellers who remain, anchored by  The Book of Legends: The Great Lives of Voyagers for comfort, connection and reflection.  Through these stories the voices of  Baruch Spinoza, Du Fu, and Hannah Arendt are heard, threading the story with questions of identity, history and humanity. 

 

This is a story of displacement - physical, emotional and existential.  It grapples with the search for meaning from what has been lost and the fragile hope for the future.  It deftly examines  centuries of persecution, disenfranchisement and the power structures that shape our world.  It amplifies the age old questions:  What is a meaningful life?  Is it a meaningful existence? Is it our legacy? Is it our impact on the world?  Are our paths predestined, or do our choices carve out our futures?  How do we survive and live with the guilt and shame of our choices? 

 

Beautifully written, this novel masterfully weaves together complex themes in a cohesive and thought provoking manner.  Capturing the lyrical grace and elegance of philosophy and literature, the book remains accessible and encouraging you to pause, reflect and absorb it.  

 

I loved the depth, beauty intricacy of this novel and the power of the story telling.  I will admit to getting a little lost with some of the science and mathematical themes,  but this did not detract from my enjoyment.   It is a thought provoking and mesmerizing work that will remain with me for a long time.  If you loved her previous novel, Do Not Say We Have Nothing you will definitely love this as well. 

 

Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House Canada for the early copy of this book and the opportunity to provide honest feedback.