A review by bayrayj
Play It as It Lays by Joan Didion

dark funny reflective tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This book had everything I hate and I loved it. The characters were selfish and sometimes their actions seemed redundant. The story was nebulous and the main character felt cold. All of these horrible things came together to help the reader understand the arid world our main character is living in. I hated Maria and I felt more connection to her than I have any main character in a long time. Her aimlessness and hopelessness doesn’t hold her back, but rather pushes her forward into a foreboding unknown. She is resigned to her nihilism but not to hopelessness. She still hopes for her child and her life, even if she doesn’t want to make it better, or want anything at all. I felt scared for her, I hated her, and then I loved her. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings