A review by tigerhae
The Book of Lost Things by John Connolly

adventurous dark emotional reflective tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

It had a slow start and was rather predictable at times, but flew much quicker once the real adventure started. I really enjoyed the way that the different classic fairytales were woven into his journey. However, there were a few things that I found immediate problems with while reading. 
My main issue was the portrayal of Roland’s sexuality. I do get how David’s initial about it being “unnatural” may fit into the WWII time period, but its use in the story still felt… off. Especially how Roland’s love for his “friend” is quickly used to insinuating that him being gay must that he must also harbor  inappropriate feelings for David, a literal CHILD! It all felt very unnecessary and made me pity Roland’s character in a way that I don’t feel was the author’s intention.
Another issue I found  was
David’s OCD just magically disappearing after one nice chat with the Woodsman. From the very beginning I thought that was such an interesting addition to his character, only for it to be quickly written away/cured once he entered Elsewhere! I just feel like it could have been included more throughout his journey.
I also found myself agreeing with other reviews about the randomness of the WWII setting or David’s fluctuating maturity level and how he oftentimes seemed unrealistic as a young boy, but I didn’t think about those things while I was actually reading, so much as after I finished and looked back. 
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