jewilso 's review for:

The Orchard Keeper by Cormac McCarthy

3.25

adventurous challenging dark mysterious reflective sad tense slow-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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McCarthy's The Orchard Keeper is most definitely a staple novel in the study of writing and prose. Where the novel becomes less enjoyable, or notable for that matter, is the convolution of the novel's plot. I will keep this blurb spoiler-free, although I don't believe there is a real importance to "spoilers" when discussing McCarthy's novels; what remains clear in my head after finishing The Orchard Keeper can be best seen through two statements: That was beautiful! and, What did I just read?
I am by no means a stranger to McCarthy's writing style and his storytelling, but there was something different about this novel -- and I don't say this in a necessarily good way.
The plot of The Orchard Keeper is second to McCarthy's writing. Some people look for a nice confluence of style and storytelling to push the books they enjoy; if you are one of those people, I don't think you will enjoy this book. It is very much a book about philosophical scenarios and language.
All that being said, I still recommend it.