A review by nothingforpomegranted
The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox by Maggie O'Farrell
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This was absolutely stunning. Maggie O’Farrell’s writing is absolutely beautiful without feeling overwritten or deliberately poetic.
Told in three perspectives, this book tells the story of Iris, Esme, and Kitty. The timeline shifts with the narration as Iris slowly discovers the existence of her great-aunt, who has spent the vast majority of her life institutionalized. As Iris attempts to understand the story and Esme begins to reflect on it, they encounter the devastation of Kitty’s dementia and the generally disturbing realities of their memories.
Utterly enthralling and completely heartbreaking. I recommend this for lovers of literary fiction that explores memory, perspective, the nature of love, and family.
Told in three perspectives, this book tells the story of Iris, Esme, and Kitty. The timeline shifts with the narration as Iris slowly discovers the existence of her great-aunt, who has spent the vast majority of her life institutionalized. As Iris attempts to understand the story and Esme begins to reflect on it, they encounter the devastation of Kitty’s dementia and the generally disturbing realities of their memories.
Utterly enthralling and completely heartbreaking. I recommend this for lovers of literary fiction that explores memory, perspective, the nature of love, and family.