A review by nixiethepixie
Migrations by Charlotte McConaghy

adventurous challenging emotional mysterious reflective sad slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Listened as an audiobook. This story truly traverses so much ground - from ecological concerns including climate change and species extinction, to seeking a lost family, relationships and crime mystery. The book spans two decades and lots of locales, and both feels fleeting and grounded. It's incredibly moving in sections, yet holds an air of mystery and intrigue around it's characters and unfolding story. I particularly enjoyed the claustrophobic nature of the sail boat and it's host of characters, and of course the lyrical prose especially when speaking to the environment, nature and the wild within. I found myself spiralling around a bit with all the jumps in times and the unfolding stakes (particularly towards the middle to end), but overall the end felt satisfying in answering most questions that arose. In so much happening throughout the story, perhaps we miss the opportunity to really get into the psyche of any of the characters. But the offering of the tender look to the natural world helps alleviates some of that craving.