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A review by msprufrock
Miracle Creek by Angie Kim
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
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
I'm having a hard time deciding how to rate this novel. On the one hand, I do think it's well-written (in terms of description, use of language, writing style, etc) and a compelling story. I thought the trial scenes were mostly well-done, and I was guessing at the true guilty party until it was revealed, with each character's perspective bringing new facts and twists. All that's great - if there were no complicating factors, I'd rate this pretty highly.
However. Most of the story points are based on what seems to me to be a pretty ableist idea, that it's possible to "cure" autism. I'm not autistic, but I've listened and spoken to enough folks on the spectrum to know that it's not possible and not needed. Often, these treatments are harmful to autistic people. The only voices in the novel pointing this out are the protesters, who are pretty much always portrayed in a more villainous role.
I don't know. With that being so central to the plot, I'm uncomfortable giving it a high rating or recommending it.
However. Most of the story points are based on what seems to me to be a pretty ableist idea, that it's possible to "cure" autism. I'm not autistic, but I've listened and spoken to enough folks on the spectrum to know that it's not possible and not needed. Often, these treatments are harmful to autistic people. The only voices in the novel pointing this out are the protesters, who are pretty much always portrayed in a more villainous role.
I don't know. With that being so central to the plot, I'm uncomfortable giving it a high rating or recommending it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Ableism, Child death, Murder, Sexual assault, and Death
Moderate: Suicide