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A review by kristid
A Map of the Known World by Lisa Ann Sandell
3.0
The real reason I picked this one up: I dig the cover. Hadn’t read anything by Sandell, but I had heard good things about Song of the Sparrow. Really awesome cover + good vibes from a recent book = maybe I should read this one!
Another great novel. I’ve been reading so many lately! A Map of the Known World deals with grief, first love, family, and coming of age. It’s apparent almost from page one that this family is suffering. Each one dealing with their loss in different ways, individually. I suppose you could say this is a story of healing, because ultimately it is.
I really enjoyed reading Sandell’s writing. It was simply beautiful, utterly captivating. It was just as expressive as an artist.... her novel was her canvas and her paintbrush her words. Corny, I know, but how can I not reference art when it is so prominently displayed in this novel.
Cora’s character unquestionably embodied the awkward transition from middle school to high school. I recall feeling the same awkwardness. And Sandell perfectly captures the emotions of Cora’s despair with her parents and the pain of an ostracized teen, there isn’t anything quite like being ditched by your best friend.
The plot was intriguing, maybe a little bit slow in areas. The relationship between Cora and Damian was slow to develop as well. It was an interesting dynamic, falling for your big brother’s best friend maybe somewhat typical, but falling for your dead brother’s best friend, now that’s a unique take.
The ending was inspiring. While everything wasn’t resolved you can see the start of the process beginning. Excellent novel, I will most likely continue to pick up Sandell’s novels.
Another great novel. I’ve been reading so many lately! A Map of the Known World deals with grief, first love, family, and coming of age. It’s apparent almost from page one that this family is suffering. Each one dealing with their loss in different ways, individually. I suppose you could say this is a story of healing, because ultimately it is.
I really enjoyed reading Sandell’s writing. It was simply beautiful, utterly captivating. It was just as expressive as an artist.... her novel was her canvas and her paintbrush her words. Corny, I know, but how can I not reference art when it is so prominently displayed in this novel.
Cora’s character unquestionably embodied the awkward transition from middle school to high school. I recall feeling the same awkwardness. And Sandell perfectly captures the emotions of Cora’s despair with her parents and the pain of an ostracized teen, there isn’t anything quite like being ditched by your best friend.
The plot was intriguing, maybe a little bit slow in areas. The relationship between Cora and Damian was slow to develop as well. It was an interesting dynamic, falling for your big brother’s best friend maybe somewhat typical, but falling for your dead brother’s best friend, now that’s a unique take.
The ending was inspiring. While everything wasn’t resolved you can see the start of the process beginning. Excellent novel, I will most likely continue to pick up Sandell’s novels.