A review by unfiltered_fiction
The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida by Shehan Karunatilaka

challenging dark slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

I can definitely see why this book has been recognised for its literary quality - I've rarely read a novel that has so many lines and paragraphs that have such a poetic profundity. I also think that this story will also teach most readers without deep knowledge of modern Sri Lankan history a phenomenal amount, just as it did for me. My rating has to be limited by a lack of genuine connection with the characters and frustration with the disjointed structure even within short sequences. I think these things are probably intentional, as they are consistent throughout the book, and I'm sure that there will be plenty of readers who can appreciate this approach. It just wasn't something I could get on board with. I also struggled with the fact that this is a story which centres the pain and beauty of human existence, and is excellent at capturing both, yet the inter-character relationships felt lacking in range; they were all very dependent on tension, and there was a lack of softness to throw those sharp edges into relief.
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