A review by spaces_and_solaces
Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro

4.0

Never Let Me Know Go takes you on a journey where anticipation hangs in the air, like the imminent drop of an unknown shoe. Set against a backdrop of dystopia in the 90s, this novel transcends its sci-fi label and delves deep into the fragility of the human condition. From the very beginning, a gnawing unease settles in the pit of your stomach, and a profound sense of despair lingers long after finishing the last page.

Narrated by Kathy, the story unfurls within the confines of a peculiar English private school, immediately setting off alarm bells in the reader's mind. The teachers, known as Guardians, exhibit an unsettling aversion toward the students, who eventually become labeled as carers or donors. As the narrative unfolds, the destination becomes clear, the path ahead apparent, and yet, the glimmer of hope persists, urging us to keep reading, hoping against hope for a spark of salvation for these tormented souls.

Ishiguro weaves his words with meticulous depth, unraveling the tapestry of emotions and laying bare the raw essence of the human experience. His prose, though understated, carries an undeniable weight, confronting us with the profound intentions that lie beneath the surface. It is a delicate dance, for discussing this book without revealing spoilers is a daunting task. In fact, I would implore you to approach it with no prior knowledge, for the impact is magnified in its unanticipated revelations.

Never Let Me Know Go stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, leaving an indelible mark upon the reader's soul. While it may not claim the title of my personal favorite among Ishiguro's works, it has left me wounded, contemplative, and bestowed upon me a perspective on life that is truly unparalleled.

This novel beckons us to ponder the fragility of existence, the weight of predetermined paths, and the haunting nature of what it truly means to be human.