Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library marries an instantly captivating, magical speculation with a universally relatable, and thus quickly consumed, narrative. And although its easy-reading nature may fall short of the literary expectations of those seeking a more layered experience, in the end, The Midnight Library prompts us to consider whether what is said does not matter more than how it’s conveyed… continue reading
Considered by many to be a classic American novel, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby is a book of balanced contradictions that entices repeated readings in spite of its seemingly common construction. This is first felt in Fitzgerald’s writing style. At once poetically concise yet also verbose and obscure… continue reading
In all that Babel promises to be, it undoubtedly achieves thorough historical substance; prose that is at once fluent, digestible, and darkly atmospheric; a provocative thematic framework; and a magic system guaranteed to win the heart of any language enthusiast. However, in as much as it impresses, from a more literary standpoint, it may yet leave readers wanting more… continue reading
Given the title The History of Love, Nicole Krauss delivers on the biggest promise an author can make. From structure to character to voice, The History captures every essence of the book’s name—and likewise main theme—across four separate perspectives down to every comma and period, representing even that which is almost impossible to put into words… continue reading
Tales of adventure are often susceptible to unrealistically perilous moments, the dramatic revelation of glittering treasure, and the romanticization of the “discoverer.” In The Lost City, however, Douglas Preston presents a modern, layman’s view of archeology that is respectful, unembellished, and richly informative while yet sustaining as much suspense as any fictional creation… continue reading
The Book Keep 