A review by caklock
Elena Knows by Claudia Piñeiro

5.0

**Shortlisted for Booker International Prize 2022**
Wow, just wow. This slim book delivers a huge punch to the gut. Themes of motherhood, bodily autonomy, and the burdens of being a caretaker are interwoven as Elena makes her slow way across a city on a pilgrimage to solve the death of her daughter. The structure of the book was masterful and the more I reflect on the story, the more I realize that seemingly disparate threads are neatly woven into a single tapestry. I can't say reading this was an enjoyable experience, but it left me staggered by its impact. I will never forget it.