A review by kelly_e
The Theory of Crows by David A. Robertson
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Title: Theory of Crows
Author: David Alexander Robertson
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 4.75
Pub Date: September 13, 2022
Thanks to HarperCollins Canada for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
T H R E E • W O R D S
Multilayered • Atmospheric • Fierce
📖 S Y N O P S I S
Matthew, has dealt with anxiety his entire life. Recently, his wife Claire, and daughter Hallelujah (Holly), have noticed he had been drifting farther away. In fact, Holly has completely stopped talking to him. Matthew, aware of the fractured relationship wants to bridge the gap, but has no idea where to even begin.
In the wake of a family tragedy, Matthew and Holly journey together onto the land in search of a long-lost cabin on the family trapline. Yet they are both searching for something so much bigger. When things go array, they must learn to depend on each other, something that will ultimately bring them together.
A powerful story of love and loss, of healing and belonging, and of self-discovery and coming-of-age.
💭 T H O U G H T S
The gorgeous cover caught my eye and, of course, I immediately added it to my TBR. When I read the premise Theory of Crows became one of my most-anticipated releases of 2022. And it did not disappoint!
What a beautiful exploration of the power of story, reflection and reconnection with the land, and familial bonds (even in death)! This novel blends Indigenous culture with an emotional journey between a father and a daughter. Matthew's letters between chapters added another layer to the story. These gave a greater insight into his thoughts, his struggles and his regrets.
The author takes a reflective approach with the writing, using beautiful imagery, and transporting me directly into the story. I could feel their pain, their struggles, their heartbreaks. I thought it was a beautiful portrait of healing, and the mental health representation came across as being very genuine, which I appreciated.
My one wish... I wanted more of Matthew and Holly's time on the land. Their journey was my favourite portion, so I was a tad disappointed that it took so long to get there. I was expecting their journey to be the main focus, but there was way more build up than anything.
Theory of Crows is one of those stories I felt inside my bones. It made me reflect on not taking life for granted, and making time for the ones we love. I hope David Alexander Robertson writes more adult fiction, because I'll be keeping my eyes out. I don't say this often, but I can see myself picking this one up for a re-read. Do yourself a favourite and pick this one up!
📚 R E C O M M E N D • T O
• readers who like father/daughter stories
• anyone looking to expand their knowledge of Indigenous culture
🔖 F A V O U R I T E • Q U O T E S
"People talk so much but say so little."
Author: David Alexander Robertson
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 4.75
Pub Date: September 13, 2022
Thanks to HarperCollins Canada for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
T H R E E • W O R D S
Multilayered • Atmospheric • Fierce
📖 S Y N O P S I S
Matthew, has dealt with anxiety his entire life. Recently, his wife Claire, and daughter Hallelujah (Holly), have noticed he had been drifting farther away. In fact, Holly has completely stopped talking to him. Matthew, aware of the fractured relationship wants to bridge the gap, but has no idea where to even begin.
In the wake of a family tragedy, Matthew and Holly journey together onto the land in search of a long-lost cabin on the family trapline. Yet they are both searching for something so much bigger. When things go array, they must learn to depend on each other, something that will ultimately bring them together.
A powerful story of love and loss, of healing and belonging, and of self-discovery and coming-of-age.
💭 T H O U G H T S
The gorgeous cover caught my eye and, of course, I immediately added it to my TBR. When I read the premise Theory of Crows became one of my most-anticipated releases of 2022. And it did not disappoint!
What a beautiful exploration of the power of story, reflection and reconnection with the land, and familial bonds (even in death)! This novel blends Indigenous culture with an emotional journey between a father and a daughter. Matthew's letters between chapters added another layer to the story. These gave a greater insight into his thoughts, his struggles and his regrets.
The author takes a reflective approach with the writing, using beautiful imagery, and transporting me directly into the story. I could feel their pain, their struggles, their heartbreaks. I thought it was a beautiful portrait of healing, and the mental health representation came across as being very genuine, which I appreciated.
My one wish... I wanted more of Matthew and Holly's time on the land. Their journey was my favourite portion, so I was a tad disappointed that it took so long to get there. I was expecting their journey to be the main focus, but there was way more build up than anything.
Theory of Crows is one of those stories I felt inside my bones. It made me reflect on not taking life for granted, and making time for the ones we love. I hope David Alexander Robertson writes more adult fiction, because I'll be keeping my eyes out. I don't say this often, but I can see myself picking this one up for a re-read. Do yourself a favourite and pick this one up!
📚 R E C O M M E N D • T O
• readers who like father/daughter stories
• anyone looking to expand their knowledge of Indigenous culture
🔖 F A V O U R I T E • Q U O T E S
"People talk so much but say so little."
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness, Self harm, Panic attacks/disorders, and Grief
Moderate: Drug abuse, Death, Drug use, Addiction, Suicidal thoughts, and Death of parent
Minor: Alcoholism, Alcohol, Colonisation, and Infidelity
depression, anxiety