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zach_whitaker's review against another edition
challenging
dark
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Addiction, Bullying, Drug abuse, Drug use, Infidelity, Mental illness, and Panic attacks/disorders
Minor: Colonisation, Cursing, Racial slurs, and Panic attacks/disorders
dasha_musa's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This book was mystical chaos and I loved every second of it. It was ingenious and clever, vivid and immersive. The elements of magical realism are -- quite out there -- but my disbelief was suspended without question; I believed it because I felt the characters believe it. I loved the characterization in this novel, I felt like I truly knew and understood the key players. Kunzru is a master writer and storyteller with impeccable control over different varieties of narration; I almost can't wait to reread this book and see what more I can absorb and experience the second time around!
However, as some other reviewers point out, this book does not wrap up nicely. If you like a clear ending with crisp edges and a beautiful bow, this book is not for you. This book raises questions, not answers. I have many questions and theories. If you don't like books that jump around different time periods (this is not historical fiction!), this book is not for you. But, if you like a book that has you constructing a corkboard with red string in your mind, this book is definitely for you.
However, as some other reviewers point out, this book does not wrap up nicely. If you like a clear ending with crisp edges and a beautiful bow, this book is not for you. This book raises questions, not answers. I have many questions and theories. If you don't like books that jump around different time periods (this is not historical fiction!), this book is not for you. But, if you like a book that has you constructing a corkboard with red string in your mind, this book is definitely for you.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Infidelity, Racism, Sexual harassment, and Racial slurs
Minor: Suicidal thoughts, Drug use, Colonisation, Infidelity, and War
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