This book is by far one of the most unique and original I have ever read. Written in a semi-autobiographical format, Lina Meruane narrates the painful experience of becoming blind for both herself and those around her. Lina deserves credit for being so open and honest about her experiences and feelings, weaving a story of decline which brought me to tears on numerous occasions.
Although I was initially unsure about the the format of the dialogue (Lina recounts what is said to her through prose rather than with speech marks), by the end of the novel I completely understood her choice; it made her experience of sight loss all the more harrowing. By only truly hearing Lina's voice throughout the book, it reinforced the loneliness of losing your sight despite being surrounded by your loved ones, and demonstrated how easy it is to feel like you're going it alone.
I would have loved Seeing Red to continue with another few chapters, as I was desperate to read on! There is definitely room for a sequel explaining the next steps in Lina's life, and I would definitely give it a read.
Although I was initially unsure about the the format of the dialogue (Lina recounts what is said to her through prose rather than with speech marks), by the end of the novel I completely understood her choice; it made her experience of sight loss all the more harrowing. By only truly hearing Lina's voice throughout the book, it reinforced the loneliness of losing your sight despite being surrounded by your loved ones, and demonstrated how easy it is to feel like you're going it alone.
I would have loved Seeing Red to continue with another few chapters, as I was desperate to read on! There is definitely room for a sequel explaining the next steps in Lina's life, and I would definitely give it a read.