Reviews

The Town That Forgot How To Breathe by Kenneth J. Harvey

bresnensbooks's review against another edition

challenging dark emotional hopeful mysterious reflective sad tense

5.0

dustfinger93's review against another edition

1.0

I have always had a strong memory for literature, for that which I enjoyed reading.

I did not remember having read this book...at all. I picked it up from the library a few years later only to realize I had already tried to fight my way through this perplexing volume. I just didn't remember it.

The long slog of Joseph and Kim's relationship really bogged down what might have been a creepy, fantastical concept. And I can't help but think that this author has no understanding of depression.

paigekrug45's review against another edition

challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective tense slow-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

1.5

this book could've been cut in half lol
multiple perspectives was cool

thestoryowl's review against another edition

2.0

This is turning me into the reader who forgot how to remain conscious. I can't get past the first chapter. I'm sticking a pin in this one, it just isn't going to happen.

justkaty's review against another edition

I think I’m not in the right mood for this one yet. 

belacqua's review against another edition

challenging dark mysterious slow-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

4.0

amotisse's review against another edition

2.0

i suppose i eventually forced myself to finish this.
i was intrigued by the title and cover and the blurb sounded interestingly promising,
but it took me ages to get into and ages to finish.
it seemed there was no rhyme or reeason, not that there has to be, but i think i was waiting for clarity or something to jump out, happen or explain...
it didn't.
it wasn't bad, it just wasn't effortless.

danicaleblanc's review against another edition

slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character

2.0

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Child death and Violence

lilyisreadingsomething's review against another edition

3.0

This book has a fascinating premise: a town mysteriously forgets how to breathe, bizarre things coming out of the sea and a good amount of folklore. Though those elements draw you in, the plot drags and the dialogue's a bit stilted. Definitely worth a read, but falls short of its potential.

spauffwrites's review against another edition

2.0

Could easily be called "The Town that Forgot to Believe." More like 2.5 stars - a pretty good book, well-written, just not my usual cup of tea. I was intrigued by the concept - an entire town, essentially drowning on dry land. I wish there had been a little more about the supernatural creatures that suddenly start appearing - those were my favorite parts.