A review by flexluthor
The War of the End of the World by Mario Vargas Llosa
challenging
dark
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This one was a tough read, both because there are some horrific things happening throughout the book and also because it was slow paced. For a book about a war it sure took a long time to get some action. Perhaps I'm not as well educated on the gospels as some other readers, but despite having heard this described as a retelling of the Jesus story I did not see it.
I think the framing of the baron and the journalist discussing the fate of Canudos is interesting, and when the book starts to hop perspectives 3-4 times per chapter it became far more engaging for me. Overall I did enjoy it despite being somewhat of a slog, and Vargas Llosa writes beautifully about the country and landscapes of Brazil. I think there are a couple dozen well developed characters, and the tragedy of Canudos is gripping throughout.
I think the framing of the baron and the journalist discussing the fate of Canudos is interesting, and when the book starts to hop perspectives 3-4 times per chapter it became far more engaging for me. Overall I did enjoy it despite being somewhat of a slog, and Vargas Llosa writes beautifully about the country and landscapes of Brazil. I think there are a couple dozen well developed characters, and the tragedy of Canudos is gripping throughout.