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A review by avalette
Let Us Descend: A Novel by Jesmyn Ward
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Not exactly what I expected.
The story itself is harrowing and Ward’s imagery is powerful. A lot of the story is told using earthy descriptors and I found that interesting considering how much the protagonist, Annis, is forced to interact with the earth.
The spirits were interesting. I really enjoy the idea that Annis, through the stories her mother told her, holds Aza close throughout these horrific experiences while also criticizing the spirits and how much they demand of her.
I can’t tell if I wanted more or less magical realism. I like the idea of the spirits and how they’re incorporated into the world and story, but I also feel like we simultaneously saw them too often and too little.
Overall a good read. I feel this is one of those books where the reader benefits more if they discuss with other readers or if this book is taught in a class setting. A critical analysis of this book does feel required to enjoy it to the fullest.
The story itself is harrowing and Ward’s imagery is powerful. A lot of the story is told using earthy descriptors and I found that interesting considering how much the protagonist, Annis, is forced to interact with the earth.
The spirits were interesting. I really enjoy the idea that Annis, through the stories her mother told her, holds Aza close throughout these horrific experiences while also criticizing the spirits and how much they demand of her.
I can’t tell if I wanted more or less magical realism. I like the idea of the spirits and how they’re incorporated into the world and story, but I also feel like we simultaneously saw them too often and too little.
Overall a good read. I feel this is one of those books where the reader benefits more if they discuss with other readers or if this book is taught in a class setting. A critical analysis of this book does feel required to enjoy it to the fullest.