A review by maggiesandusky
Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka

challenging dark mysterious reflective sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

The way the rotating narrative is designed leaves Ansel with the most thought and character development. The women characters who are supposed to be shaping the reader’s perspective are left undeveloped and mostly flat, carrying Ansel’s narrative and perception of himself rather than offering a valid contrast. It is a fast read and is an interesting perspective on our justice system from the perspective of the incarcerated and those investigating them. However it is not the deviation from the genre it claims to be. If every women’s narrative wasn’t rotated through in groups of three with each one spaced by a chapter of Ansel’s narrative I believe the book would’ve met what it’s advertised as more.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings