I thought the writing style was good, however I didn't enjoy the stories themselves. They felt sort of purpose and directionless. Also, I do understand that the text was written in a different time, but the very frequent use of racial and lesbophobic slurs from Holly didn't endear me to her in the slightest.

This book is okay, but nothing special. The characters are broadly unlikeable and I'm unsure what the point of the book was meant to be, as the plot was introduced only at the end. In this regard, The Atlas Six has one of the least satisfying endings I've ever read, given that it essentially doesn't have one - none of the loose ends are tied up. A large portion of this book should've been taken out so the magic and the plot could take centre stage. Suffice to say, there are interesting elements to this book - but they aren't explored at all satisfactorily.

I enjoyed this book but I don't feel completely satisfied. The tone is quite dark and melancholy in places and not necessarily filled with childhood wonder as I was expecting. The magical realism/fantasy elements I really enjoyed, but was left feeling like I wanted more of it. This is definitely a story more about childhood trauma than a fantasy story, and I was wanting more from the adventure. I think the book would benefit from being longer which certainly isn't the worst criticism you could give. The Hempstocks are fascinating and loveable and more of them would have been brilliant. The main character was also very sweet and his friendship with Lettie was heartwarming.