Scan barcode
A review by notthatcosta
Pearl by Siân Hughes
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
An achingly beautiful book that is one of the most visceral and resonant depictions of grief and loss I've seen represented in literature. The magical realist elements are incredibly wistful and beautiful, especially considering the 'real world' aspects are so...real.
I would give this 5* but the quality dipped so much in chapters 11-13 that it almost ruined the book for me. I guess I just find bratty, angsty teenagers insufferable in any and every form and context.
Overall, one of the most impactful novels I've read in recent memory, and to know that the story was very much informed by Sian Hughes' own experiences and childhood makes it even more special.
I would give this 5* but the quality dipped so much in chapters 11-13 that it almost ruined the book for me. I guess I just find bratty, angsty teenagers insufferable in any and every form and context.
Overall, one of the most impactful novels I've read in recent memory, and to know that the story was very much informed by Sian Hughes' own experiences and childhood makes it even more special.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Death, Mental illness, Self harm, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Blood, Grief, Death of parent, and Abandonment
Minor: Pregnancy