Ok, I know it’s Halloween reading time, so I feel like I need to be upfront about the fact that The Bone People isn’t a scary book. I think the synopsis does a better job at describing what this book actually is than I could, so I won’t try. But I will say that it’s unlike anything I’ve ever read. And I kind of loved it.
(All reviews are spoiler-free unless otherwise noted.)
Review
I still haven’t fully sorted out my thoughts on this novel. I’ve never read anything like it, and my brain still hasn’t fully adjusted. The writing was incredibly unique. It was honestly a little bit disorienting, but I think that actually added to the whole atmosphere of this story. Once I got used to it (mostly, because I don’t think I ever fully got used to it), I actually really liked it. Since it was so different than what I’m used to, it forced me to slow down, and I think I ended up appreciating this book even more.
The Bone People largely revolves around a mute boy named Simon, and the people he brings together. It deals a lot with trauma and child abuse (trigger warning for physical abuse). It’s definitely not an easy read. This book hurt me, even though I saw it coming. I don’t want to give too much away, just know you will not be okay after reading this.
And although I really enjoyed the writing, the highlight of this book, for me, was the characters. I especially loved Simon. What can I say, I have a huge soft spot for snarky children in books. And the fact that he is mute and still snarky and sarcastic just made me love him more. I spent the entire book just wanting to give him a hug. I also really liked Kerewin. As a woman who recently entered her thirties and likes being alone, I identified with her probably a bit too much. This book had such a unique cast of characters, and I thought they worked so well for this story.
Rating
★★★★★ – I would say The Bone People is for everyone, it I loved it. It’s definitely one of those older books that deserves more attention. If you like literary fiction with a little bit of magical realism (that might make you cry), I would definitely recommend this one.
It sounds interesting and now I have to find if I can buy it or have it from a local library.
It is not an easy book to find. I tried to find it as an audiobook or ebook, but it doesn’t exist. Hopefully your library has it. Good luck!
Oh no! Then chances are, it’s probably not available here. 😞😞
It is on Book Depository (I just checked) so you can always try there (they have free worldwide shipping).
Ooh! Thanks so much!! I will definitely check it out!