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A review by emilycsmith
The Hazel Wood by Melissa Albert
2.0
"And while they're being told, stories create the energy that makes this world go. They keep our stars in place. They make our grass grow."
🦇
If you like dark, twisted fairy tales, this book might be for you. It wasn't for me. I initially liked its creepy, read-with-the-lights-on narrative, but the more I read the less I cared for it. The writing style made me feel lost and uncomfortable, and the last third of the book was nonsensical. Although I thought the plot was clever, the pieces never lined up for me. The main character was irate, rash, and insensitive, with no apologies. I had hope for the sidekick, but his arc fell pretty quickly. I can't dismiss that this book had far too much language for me -- this is a young adult novel! There were also some strange themes of racism. I really wanted to like this book, because I had heard so many good things about it! Unfortunately, it just wasn't my cup of tea.
🦇
If you like dark, twisted fairy tales, this book might be for you. It wasn't for me. I initially liked its creepy, read-with-the-lights-on narrative, but the more I read the less I cared for it. The writing style made me feel lost and uncomfortable, and the last third of the book was nonsensical. Although I thought the plot was clever, the pieces never lined up for me. The main character was irate, rash, and insensitive, with no apologies. I had hope for the sidekick, but his arc fell pretty quickly. I can't dismiss that this book had far too much language for me -- this is a young adult novel! There were also some strange themes of racism. I really wanted to like this book, because I had heard so many good things about it! Unfortunately, it just wasn't my cup of tea.