A review by justjacq
The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak

emotional hopeful informative mysterious reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

What a start to this year of reading, friends. Last year, I averaged around one 5 star book a month, but here I am in February, and this book will mark my second 5 star read this month and my third of 2024 so far. This story is so breathtaking and imaginative - I urge you to pick it up. There is so much that is explored, and it's done through such a unique POV - I am truly in love with a particular fig tree now. There's conflict and war, there's heartbreak, loss, connection, history, compassion, hope, nature, disease, world-changes, there's just so much to take in. The writing is immersive and prose-like. The story is almost lyrical, and the characters are warm and rich. I learned a lot about the history of Cyprus and the division of its citizens. I also learned so much about the interconnectedness of nature, animals, and insects. The narrative about the similarities between trees and people was so beautiful, and the altenating POVs kept highlighting the beauty in the life and death of nature, alongside the highs and lows of life. I think this one will stick with me, and I just loved reading it.
5/5⭐️s