A review by syinhui
The Diving Pool by Yōko Ogawa

dark mysterious reflective relaxing medium-paced

4.0

These three novellas evoke a haunting feeling and a deep sense of unease, all within a prose that is gentle, melancholic, and almost relaxing in its mundane, dream-like quality.

For me, The Diving Pool is equal parts unsettling and calming. It’s a peculiar combination, yet so apt for this book. This is a fascinating read and it reminded me of some of the short stories in The Houseguest by Amparo Dávila, the psychological horror elements, the impassive, sad women and in the way how idleness, loneliness, and isolation can leave the mind to ruminate, and even act upon on thoughts both dark and twisted.

The Diving Pool is a great introduction to Yoko Ogawa, and I’d love to explore more of her works.