A review by sheilareads_
Chronicle of a Death Foretold by Gabriel García Márquez

challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

 I'm kicking off 2024 with Marquez's Chronicle of a Death Foretold, a novella that unravels the final hours of Santiago's life until his inevitable death. The story is narrated through interviews, memories, and court documents, not as a whodunnit, but rather a how.

Marquez skillfully explores various themes, with my fascination centering on the bystander effect within the community. The surreal awareness of Santiago's tragedy raises poignant questions about complicity in the face of impending disaster. Likewise, it's a compelling delve into societal and cultural absurdities. Note: Check trigger/content warnings before picking up the book. This marks my initial dive into Marquez's works, and I'm eager to explore more of his writings throughout the year.