A review by jimk1n
The Wasp Factory by Iain Banks
challenging
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
1.75
The first 80% of this book was simultaneously one of the best and worst books I’ve read. Completely unpleasant to read and yet I couldn’t put it down. The POV of a teenager without much of a conscience or respect for life, combined with child-like superstitions and glimpses of twisted kindness, was really compelling.
This is a book that’s screaming to say “I have a point!” and “I want to say something about the human condition!” But the ending felt abrupt and confused, and now that I’ve finished I’m not sure I want or care to know what the “point” was.
This is a book that’s screaming to say “I have a point!” and “I want to say something about the human condition!” But the ending felt abrupt and confused, and now that I’ve finished I’m not sure I want or care to know what the “point” was.