A review by anemosise
The Memory Police by Yōko Ogawa

dark mysterious reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

totally understand why some wouldn't enjoy this book, it's a bit slow and doesn't answer all the questions it raises, but i really liked a lot of concepts at play in this :) we don't ever fully understand the memory police, which I think makes sense to me. i get that it could be a let down, but truly, the people under rule will never truly understand the government or a totalitarian regime. this book is about an apathy and the effects on the people who dont fully understand what is happening in their world. being forced to be complacent with the loss of things we once thought to treasure, and accepting as the world grows darker and blander. how do we continue going when we lose our sense of comprehension?? anyways. i liked this!!!

a short essay i liked about the book:
https://sites.lsa.umich.edu/mqr/2021/07/yoko-ogawas-the-memory-police-and-the-dangers-of-forgetting/

first book I've read properly in a few months cause I've been busyyyyy.. excited to read more this summer!
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