Scan barcode
A review by debi_g
So Much Pretty by Cara Hoffman
4.0
A collection of thoughts about this book:
If you read this book, prepare to devote thought to the intriguing angles presented on the following topics: parenting/family dynamics, idealism vs. ideology, life as an instrument of change, innocence and vigilante justice, and attitude as opposed to fact.
The splintered narrative, complete with documents, interviews, and fractured chronology demand patience at the beginning, but the plot and characters emerge and take hold.
I can't help but think it's intentional that the line from which the title is drawn is uttered on page 111.
Most chapters close with incredibly strong lines that produce a lump in the throat and a new train of thought.
The circus trope is used deftly and serves more than one purpose.
Having lived in a rural area outside a small town, I appreciated the portrait of how exclusionary, secretive, and sinister such places can be.
Most every character, however briefly noted, rings true. Especially Dale's mother.
I do and do not want to know more about who was involved in what happened, and how it came about...just like the reporter in the story (who is a great character).
Finally, an interesting author bio that doesn't try too hard.
3.5 stars
If you read this book, prepare to devote thought to the intriguing angles presented on the following topics: parenting/family dynamics, idealism vs. ideology, life as an instrument of change, innocence and vigilante justice, and attitude as opposed to fact.
The splintered narrative, complete with documents, interviews, and fractured chronology demand patience at the beginning, but the plot and characters emerge and take hold.
I can't help but think it's intentional that the line from which the title is drawn is uttered on page 111.
Most chapters close with incredibly strong lines that produce a lump in the throat and a new train of thought.
The circus trope is used deftly and serves more than one purpose.
Having lived in a rural area outside a small town, I appreciated the portrait of how exclusionary, secretive, and sinister such places can be.
Most every character, however briefly noted, rings true. Especially Dale's mother.
I do and do not want to know more about who was involved in what happened, and how it came about...just like the reporter in the story (who is a great character).
Finally, an interesting author bio that doesn't try too hard.
3.5 stars