A review by sunflowerjess
Aviva vs the Dybbuk by Mari Lowe

mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

This was a interesting and atmospheric read. I didn't mind, as other reviews noted, that there were a lot of words specific to Jewish terminology and culture; for me, reading is partly about learning, and I don't think the author needs to spell everything out for the reader. I looked up a few words but it wasn't a big deal and for me didn't detract from the story. Aviva was a unique and fascinating character. Her background story, specifically what happened to her parents, unfolds slowly over the course of the book, giving it a mysterious and haunting vibe.