A review by drbird
The Disenchantments, by Nina LaCour
5.0
I finished this book in February. It's April and I still think about it. I think that says enough, right?
Well, here's a few more things to consider: there's a scene early in the book -- the band's first show in some dude's basement -- that had me smiling the whole way. Upon reading that scene, I knew that this was not going to be a slog through romantic angst or trauma or manufactured danger. This was going to be a quest for understanding and purpose (because the world is always demanding we "have a purpose"). It's a relationship story, yes, but not simply about Colby and Bev falling away from each other and then learning something. This is about all the most important kinds of relationships one can have -- with friends, family, strangers that become new friends, and strangers we see once and never again.
It's got some impressively real moments but what stands out most are the VISUALS LaCour conjures via language.
THE DISENCHANTMENTS is an excellent way to spend a weekend.
Well, here's a few more things to consider: there's a scene early in the book -- the band's first show in some dude's basement -- that had me smiling the whole way. Upon reading that scene, I knew that this was not going to be a slog through romantic angst or trauma or manufactured danger. This was going to be a quest for understanding and purpose (because the world is always demanding we "have a purpose"). It's a relationship story, yes, but not simply about Colby and Bev falling away from each other and then learning something. This is about all the most important kinds of relationships one can have -- with friends, family, strangers that become new friends, and strangers we see once and never again.
It's got some impressively real moments but what stands out most are the VISUALS LaCour conjures via language.
THE DISENCHANTMENTS is an excellent way to spend a weekend.