A review by kelseyorzel
Sharks in the Time of Saviors by Kawai Strong Washburn

emotional reflective tense slow-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

4.5

4.5 stars. Sharks in the Time of Saviors was a very poignant tale of identity, family, poverty, capitalism, and loss. This book was beautifully written, the story was engaging, characters were developed (mostly), and the multiperspective narration that bounces around the members of a Hawaiian family was remarkably well done. So many big themes were explored while keeping the story well-paced and fascinating. I loved how the Hawaiian ethnicity of the central family allowed honest commentary on capitalism and politics from a viewpoint I do not often find in pop fiction. I enjoyed the magical realism elements of this book combined with some traditional Hawaiian mythological exploration. I also highly recommend the audiobook. It was a full-cast narration that was beautifully executed and solidified my connection to the characters
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