A review by homegrownbookpicks
The Nix, by Nathan Hill
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Every once in a while you read book that is so excellently crafted - a book that makes such keen observations about society - and a book whose characters, while not necessarily likable, are intriguing nonetheless.
The Nix was a book that kept me turning pages, nodding my head, and wondering what would happen next.
Taking place between Samuel’s childhood - and also his mother’s teen years in the late 1960s - and present day (2011), this is the story of family, loss, misunderstanding, grief, hope, and much more. It is a story that makes spot on observations about politics and society.
Add in a character - Pwange - who is addicted to gaming (and oddly this character really works in the story) - and I was amazed by how many moving parts Nathan Hill could have in a novel.
Fair warning - lots of triggers in this book (and cursing). Sexual abuse, physical abuse, and a lot of violence that surrounded the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. I felt, though, that all of this had its place in the book and time periods.
Overall, through the characters I got a deep look at society during two very troubling times in our history.
If you’re looking for a long (600+ pages) novel with interesting characters and many plot twists - plus a history lesson - pick this one up. I’m sad this is Nathan Hill’s only novel.
The Nix was a book that kept me turning pages, nodding my head, and wondering what would happen next.
Taking place between Samuel’s childhood - and also his mother’s teen years in the late 1960s - and present day (2011), this is the story of family, loss, misunderstanding, grief, hope, and much more. It is a story that makes spot on observations about politics and society.
Add in a character - Pwange - who is addicted to gaming (and oddly this character really works in the story) - and I was amazed by how many moving parts Nathan Hill could have in a novel.
Fair warning - lots of triggers in this book (and cursing). Sexual abuse, physical abuse, and a lot of violence that surrounded the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. I felt, though, that all of this had its place in the book and time periods.
Overall, through the characters I got a deep look at society during two very troubling times in our history.
If you’re looking for a long (600+ pages) novel with interesting characters and many plot twists - plus a history lesson - pick this one up. I’m sad this is Nathan Hill’s only novel.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Child abuse, Death, Pedophilia, Police brutality, Sexual content, and Sexual violence