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A review by saint_eleanor
Primeval and Other Times by Olga Tokarczuk
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
a very beautiful examination of the human condition told over 2 generations.
The story takes place in the possibly unreal village of Primeval and follows a number of different residents through their 'times' as they grow old and die and are born all set during pre/during/post WWII. It has heavy themes of survival and loneliness and like focusing on the small things people cling to when they start to witness their own mortality.
I particularly loved the story of Cornspike & Ruta, and the old woman Florentynka. I also really liked the 'game' which was pretty much just an analysis of faith and god.
I think I liked the first 3/4 of the book way more than the last quarter, possibly because the last quarter was just so bleak. If you liked Lapvona you might like this.
The story takes place in the possibly unreal village of Primeval and follows a number of different residents through their 'times' as they grow old and die and are born all set during pre/during/post WWII. It has heavy themes of survival and loneliness and like focusing on the small things people cling to when they start to witness their own mortality.
I particularly loved the story of Cornspike & Ruta, and the old woman Florentynka. I also really liked the 'game' which was pretty much just an analysis of faith and god.
I think I liked the first 3/4 of the book way more than the last quarter, possibly because the last quarter was just so bleak. If you liked Lapvona you might like this.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Suicide, and Terminal illness
Moderate: Rape and War