A review by shakespeareantragedy
The King of Infinite Space by Lyndsay Faye

emotional funny reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

The problem with this book is that it's a really good book, and a very bad retelling. Misunderstands the original text of Hamlet, particularly in the scope of its themes. It feels as though the author realized that Hamlet was 'about death' and ran with it, neglecting to include many of the ways the play explores death, as well as how that branches out into a multitude of other rich themes. I'm also really not opposed to playing with the narrative of a retelling, but some of the creative choices here just.... don't work?

That being said; great prose, great romance, great twist.
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