A review by bellist
With Teeth by Kristen Arnett

dark emotional tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

This book is a perfect example of how to write unlikable characters in a way that’s still compelling for a reader. I loved Arnett’s exploration of what happens when marriage and parenthood go wrong, and how destructive stagnation can be when  a person refuses to make decisions that could improve their inner and outer worlds. I think Sammie is fairly narcissistic, but she’s also desperately alone and dealing with addiction — this book offers a devastating, realistic depiction of alcohol dependence. I agree with other criticisms re: Samson’s behavior sometimes being inconsistent or reading as autistic. But I think the text made it clear that he didn’t have any diagnosed conditions. He read more as a child who was born bratty and never nurtured or supported by his parents. I loved how Arnett wove Florida culture and nature into her scene setting, and her brief forays into the minds of side characters. She was also very good at writing life’s subtle indignities. This is an interesting depiction of lesbian life/marriage/motherhood/middle age. It’s a kind of extended character study of a stubborn, selfish and heartbroken person who will not get a grip, and the ripple effects that behavior has on her familial relationships/her son in particular.  
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