A review by kyliecardell
Feuchtgebiete by Charlotte Roche

I don't know why Goodreads has the German version as the only available one (the same isbn, apparently) but in English, this book is called 'Wetlands' & it just came out as a hyped arthouse movie. Lots of focus has been for the 'transgressive' protagonist, who is a bit fucked up about hygiene, sex, & personal safety. Yeah, it's a bit weird. But it's also compelling. Helen is a very complex and often unlikeable character and her world view is fascinating, unsettling, & completely convincing. I actually really loved it and was completely fascinated by the character & her brittle sanity. & all the attention on her 'transgressive' body relationship is kind of ridiculous. The horrifying parts of this book are completely authentic. It's not shock for shock value, which is frankly very rare & should be celebrated. I've read crime fiction that grossed me out more. In fact, that's probably why I don't read crime fiction. This is a thoroughly crafted & holistically imagined story. It's edgy, unusual, & completely original. Recommended.