Now, this book goes into a lot of mental health issues I know nothing about, so mileage may vary here. I can’t speak to the representation there, and it’s a huge component of the story. But I think the conceit around it is interesting and makes for compelling reading, and feels well handled?

It is also bleak. Boy is it ever, sometimes. The mental health of the protagonist improves and degrades with her interactions with other people. A rich inner life is basically the only thing keeping her together as she suffers ostracizing and has much more responsibility placed on her by her family than most young adults her age. Talking about the central conceit of the book I would consider to be a spoiler. It’s also the most interesting aspect of the story; something I found very relatable at times. Suffice it to say the surrealistic aspects are not something I’ve come across quite like this.

It’s brutal and honest, very human in its depiction of humanity. Nuanced enough that characters all felt fleshed out. Heartbreakingly sad at times, coupled with mental health components and self-harm, I’d caution readers to consider their own headspace going into the story. If in the right place to contemplate the questions, and how they’re raised, I think this could range from very meaningful to at least fairly unique. In the wrong headspace, I expect this could feel crushing.

The audiobook, by the way, has multiple narrators and were all absolutely excellent. Great production values. Standout.