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A review by miranda_grace
Wayward by Chuck Wendig
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.75
"Wayward" by Chuck Wendig is a sprawling and emotionally charged follow-up to "Wanderers." At over 750 pages, it's an epic+ journey that delves into themes of grief, loss, second chances, and the unpredictable nature of life.
The narrative's emotional depth is anchored by the remarkable character development. For example, Matthew, whose transformation from detestable to indispensable is both compelling and, in some ways, expected. Wendig's ability to navigate the complexities of human emotions, while also incorporating diverse points of view, including that of Gumball, the Golden Retriever, is truly impressive.
The timing of the Wanderers was eerily prescient, as it foretold a pandemic, lockdowns, civil unrest and rapid polarization, and even war. Wayward continues the investigation of the implications of AI and machine learning, echoing real-world concerns, and continues to delve deeper into fascism and white-supremacy in a work of fiction that doesn't seem far from reality.
Pacing, while initially challenging (.25 deduction for that), eventually gives way to a compelling and propulsive narrative that culminates in a deeply emotional and resonant conclusion. The book's exploration of grief and loss is balanced by its themes of hope, second chances, and new beginnings, creating a rich and multifaceted tapestry of human experience.
I really loved both Wanderers and Wayward the only problem is they are hard to recommend solely based on length 😂
The narrative's emotional depth is anchored by the remarkable character development. For example, Matthew, whose transformation from detestable to indispensable is both compelling and, in some ways, expected. Wendig's ability to navigate the complexities of human emotions, while also incorporating diverse points of view, including that of Gumball, the Golden Retriever, is truly impressive.
The timing of the Wanderers was eerily prescient, as it foretold a pandemic, lockdowns, civil unrest and rapid polarization, and even war. Wayward continues the investigation of the implications of AI and machine learning, echoing real-world concerns, and continues to delve deeper into fascism and white-supremacy in a work of fiction that doesn't seem far from reality.
Pacing, while initially challenging (.25 deduction for that), eventually gives way to a compelling and propulsive narrative that culminates in a deeply emotional and resonant conclusion. The book's exploration of grief and loss is balanced by its themes of hope, second chances, and new beginnings, creating a rich and multifaceted tapestry of human experience.
I really loved both Wanderers and Wayward the only problem is they are hard to recommend solely based on length 😂