A review by chandranolynne
Swamplandia! by Karen Russell

adventurous dark emotional reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.0

"Anger needed an anchor, a plug, a wall. (I am angry because of ____.) Otherwise you had a beam of red feeling searching vainly through the universe. You had a heart that shot red light into space."

I had planned to give this book three stars until the last chapter said, "The Beginning of the End," and I said out loud, "Thank God." I really wanted to like this. The premise was interesting enough, and the characters were likeable and engaging. Unfortunately, for me, it was too disjointed, and I couldn't help but slowly lose interest as it went on. Also, I usually love magical realism, but there wasn't enough clarity as to whether or not it was actually happening so even that aspect couldn't save it.