A review by ashlurtis
Women Talking by Miriam Toews

challenging dark emotional sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

I need to start by saying that in general, this book is a little too heavy for me, which is why I’m downrating it a little. If I had a thicker skin, I think this would be a five star easily. 

Other than that, the only complaint I have about this book is that the amount of characters gets a little muddled, especially since most everyone is related somehow. 

That being said, this book is masterfully written. Loosely in the form of minutes for meetings, the story is actually told from the perspective of a man, about women debating what to do about a horrible situation. Without spoilers, the end justified this strange plot device. 

This small book packs a huge punch and is very relevant. The Mennonite setting gives the whole book a timeless feel and reduces this story to its bare bones, making it sadly relatable. 
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