Scan barcode
A review by aurorabulgaris
Lessons by Ian McEwan
dark
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
The style is absolutely impeccable!
The plenty of historical events setting the scenes of a simple yet unusual life made for a wonderful read. Even the difficult topics are written in a way that draws you in and doesn’t let you look away.
The main theme? If inactions are valid choices to let life happen to you and hope for the best? Seeing that despite it all the main character died happy, I agree with McEwen, that they probably are.
Until I read this book, I didn’t realize I needed one telling me the story of a human who was not (trying) to be a hero, to make a change, who was just trying to get through life.
The plenty of historical events setting the scenes of a simple yet unusual life made for a wonderful read. Even the difficult topics are written in a way that draws you in and doesn’t let you look away.
The main theme? If inactions are valid choices to let life happen to you and hope for the best? Seeing that despite it all the main character died happy, I agree with McEwen, that they probably are.
Until I read this book, I didn’t realize I needed one telling me the story of a human who was not (trying) to be a hero, to make a change, who was just trying to get through life.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cancer
Moderate: Child abuse