A review by libraryofavirgo
Dwelling: A Novel by Emily Hunt Kivel

medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

This is definitely one of the stranger books I have ever read in my lifetime, but I mean that in the best way possible. What begins as a dystopian-like commentary on the country’s housing crisis turns into a fairy tale-esque magical realism. I just—this is truly the most unique book I have had the pleasure of reading in a long time. The commentary is striking and hits so close to home, especially in a time when the majority of the population is struggling with the affordability of housing. Kivel also lends commentary to the bleak view that much of the younger generations have grown to have; they no longer have strong hopes for the future due to the state of the world and its continuing decline. How hard it becomes to find ourselves and believe in the good of the world when we are fighting to survive. 

This is a book I can confidently recommend to anyone and everyone. This story holds so much between the commentary and astounding fairy tale elements, I truly believe there is something in this for everyone.