Reviews

A Psalm for the Wild-Built (Monk & Robot, 1) and A Prayer for the Crown-Shy (Monk & Robot 2), Set of 2 Books by Becky Chambers

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naomi_hyde's review against another edition

hopeful medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.75

Really lovely book, reading it literally felt like a warm cup of tea which is very apt to the story!

The characters of Dex and Mosscap were both well-developed as the book follows their burgeoning friendship with Dex trying to figure out his purpose in life and Mosscap looking to learn more about human society. I loved their friendship, it was very wholesome and comforting.

The book's theme and message that existing in itself is life's purpose and we all have intrinsic worth was very heartwarming and hopeful, and a good reminder to reject the notion that we always need to be productive or striving to be better for life to have meaning. The world that the author had created gave such an optimistic and hopeful view of the future and the survival of the human race, which further added to the book's homely and comforting vibe.

Whilst I did like the book, not much happened in terms of the plot and I expected more from it. I suppose that very much mirrors the theme of the book - a story doesn't necessarily have to lots of action or a clear direction for it to be worthwhile, but as a reading experience, I wish there had been more going on in the book to keep me engaged. I also felt that more time could have been spent building the relationship between Mosscap and Dex - they seemed to become very close in a short amount of time, and I think if the book was a tiny bit longer, we could have spent more time creating a really meaningful friendship that didn't feel rushed or sudden.

Overall, a nice story with a heartwarming message, but it didn't live up to my expectations for a Becky Chamber's book.