Scan barcode
A review by whatellisreadnext
I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
So many people I know and trust have loved this book, and I was scared it wouldn't live up to my expectations, but it was so frigging good. This is a once in a lifetime visceral reading experience. It's so unique yet feels cosy and familiar. It's dark and mysterious, but also really human. The narrative style of our main protagonist telling us her story felt very similar to The Wall by Marlen Haushofer, another book I loved that will haunt my mind for years to come.
I won't touch on plot in this review, just because I feel I could ruin your experience. As part of the enjoyment of this novel is the ambiguity and finding things out for yourself. I will just mention this isn't a cut and dry story. If you need all the answers, you're probably not going to have a good time. Saying that, I do think there is something for everyone in this book, and it will be one I push into many peoples hands.
I won't touch on plot in this review, just because I feel I could ruin your experience. As part of the enjoyment of this novel is the ambiguity and finding things out for yourself. I will just mention this isn't a cut and dry story. If you need all the answers, you're probably not going to have a good time. Saying that, I do think there is something for everyone in this book, and it will be one I push into many peoples hands.