A review by mtyler3707
The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels by Beth Lincoln

adventurous funny lighthearted mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

The Swifts provided a super fun romp complete with eccentric family, murder, and a treasure hunt.  When a Swift is born, they are given a word from the dictionary which is thought to define them as an individual - except sometimes it doesn’t fit - so many topics are explored such as nature vs nurture. There is some coming of age bent - though it happens over only a few days, and the word play is really fun. It took me a while to get invested in these characters, and I think the book is a little long, but it was an enjoyable and empathy building tale.