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A review by jdhacker
21 Grams by M. Regan
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I feel like I was introduced to the concept of twenty one grams being the weight of a soul in some undergraduate class, which one in particular and the full context of which escapes my memory now. Likely, during a discussion of the various ways in which we have, do, or think we can measure consciousness.
However, as M. Regan's wonderful book depicts through three framed vignettes strewn through time, the true weight and burden of a soul, like duty, may be incalculably heavier. While I've tagged this as a few different genres, I don't know that any of them are entirely fitting. I think 21 grams defies easy categorization. It would not be inaccurate to say that each of the vignettes dabbles with different genre tropes, but is never bound by them. Similarly, the aspects of religion, sometimes of a more obscure nature, are clearly well researched.
The language is florid and rich, never moreso than in the first vignette set in what seems to be the Romantic era, where perhaps the purple prose is most appropriate. While the length may be such that a very quick read is possible, I would encourage the reader to take their time and savor the meal Regan has prepared for us. Regan is also clearly having some fun with us at times, in the naming of things...the Godwin, which also functions as a pump of sorts, and incorporate Wolstones into its design as but one example.
While there are certainly elements of body horror at times, bodies themselves and our relationship to the ones we inhabit, dysmorphia and all, is delicately, lovingly, and realistically handled. I know my post-transition friends that I've shared this book with have been appreciative of the representation.
I am every bit in love with his book as Regan's other work I've had the pleasure to read and would heartily encourage anyone to pick up a copy.
However, as M. Regan's wonderful book depicts through three framed vignettes strewn through time, the true weight and burden of a soul, like duty, may be incalculably heavier. While I've tagged this as a few different genres, I don't know that any of them are entirely fitting. I think 21 grams defies easy categorization. It would not be inaccurate to say that each of the vignettes dabbles with different genre tropes, but is never bound by them. Similarly, the aspects of religion, sometimes of a more obscure nature, are clearly well researched.
The language is florid and rich, never moreso than in the first vignette set in what seems to be the Romantic era, where perhaps the purple prose is most appropriate. While the length may be such that a very quick read is possible, I would encourage the reader to take their time and savor the meal Regan has prepared for us. Regan is also clearly having some fun with us at times, in the naming of things...the Godwin, which also functions as a pump of sorts, and incorporate Wolstones into its design as but one example.
While there are certainly elements of body horror at times, bodies themselves and our relationship to the ones we inhabit, dysmorphia and all, is delicately, lovingly, and realistically handled. I know my post-transition friends that I've shared this book with have been appreciative of the representation.
I am every bit in love with his book as Regan's other work I've had the pleasure to read and would heartily encourage anyone to pick up a copy.