A review by silver_valkyrie_reads
Gilead, by Marilynne Robinson
emotional
hopeful
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This is not the sort of book I expected to really enjoy. It started off very slow--to the point that I didn't realize there was even going to be a thread of story until a third or more of the way through, it seemed to be more a collection of thoughts and vignettes from a fictional character. Even that part I enjoyed reasonably well, as it captured the poetry of life, and in a human sort of way I could appreciate, though I generally getting bored with waxing eloquent about trees and such.
What really bumped the rating up is when I realized this book captures the poetry of life AND the messiness of life, which is rare. I wouldn't come to this book for theology (though occasionally it's spot on there as well), but I do recommend it for a read that's both enjoyable and encouraging about life. Especially recommended for those who enjoy sitting and listening to older people tell their stories for an afternoon--this is that sort of a book.
What really bumped the rating up is when I realized this book captures the poetry of life AND the messiness of life, which is rare. I wouldn't come to this book for theology (though occasionally it's spot on there as well), but I do recommend it for a read that's both enjoyable and encouraging about life. Especially recommended for those who enjoy sitting and listening to older people tell their stories for an afternoon--this is that sort of a book.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racism, Child death, and Adult/minor relationship
Minor: Death of parent and Violence