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bgg616 's review for:
From a Low and Quiet Sea
by Donal Ryan
I love Donal Ryan, and he continues to grow with each novel. I was struck in reading the section about the Syrian refugee doctor that opens the novel, that it reminded me of dystopian novels such as [b:The Handmaid's Tale|38447|The Handmaid's Tale|Margaret Atwood|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1498057733s/38447.jpg|1119185]. Farouk, a doctor who lived a middle class life in Syria, escapes via a terrible boat journey, and ends up in a tent in a refugee camp. His current situation is nearly impossible for him to comprehend, and he recalls his life in Syria. While most dystopian fiction is set in the future (sometimes near future), I was struck how much the deterioration of life in Syria fit the dystopian "mold". This may not be in any way a profound observation. Stories of war are the ultimate dystopian stories.
There will be many in-depth reviews and at this time I need time to cogitate (yes, that is a word). Ryan ties together disparate stories deftly. Nothing feels forced, and that is his gift.
There will be many in-depth reviews and at this time I need time to cogitate (yes, that is a word). Ryan ties together disparate stories deftly. Nothing feels forced, and that is his gift.