Great concept, uneven execution. It’s also, I think, a bit prescriptive even for children; leading them to the conclusions in every single aspect of the book. From theme to granular experience of the character that didn’t need narration, to show don’t tell issues, primarily because it doesn’t respect the intelligence of the individual. This will vary depending on the child, I suppose. But I think it would be very frustrating for some readers. It’s also incredibly monotonous in style, since it relies on first person. I do this, I do that. I think this. I don’t like that. It’s slightly assuaged by the fairly good narrator (3/5, slight above average narration), but once you notice it is like an ear worm.

Saying a childrens book is predictable is probably a bridge too far. But if you’re an adult reader who was recommended this it is one hundred percent not remotely even young adult, so don’t expect to be engaged by anything but the plot and the themes. And expect it to be spoon fed. Is it above average for a childrens novel? It’s too long for comfort, but it’s also above bar, far and away, for themes and conveying fairly complex ideas. I can see why it won the prize. But as far as also being for adults… it was pretty rough going, for me, personally. But I put importance on prose work for engagement beyond most people. It is what it is.