The best way I can describe this novel is 'a slice of life'. Much like Sally Rooney's 'Normal People', it offers a glimpse into the every day experiences of complex, flawed and growing characters who are trying to make their way in the world.
Debbie, the young protagonist, is bitter, angry, anxious, wounded and vastly unlikeable at times. But she is also vulnerable, loyal, repentant and introspective, and a brilliant example of the raw humanity in all of the above.
Her neighbourhood family (a motley band of dairy farmers, drunkards and dream interpreters) is portrayed with nostalgia and fondness, but tinged with the embarrassment and judgement of youth. And then there are the deeper issues centred around her mother and uncle, which are sharp and heartbreaking, and take you on a rollercoaster of tears, laughs, lurching shock and unexpected joy.
This is part coming of age novel, part sensitive look at the vastness and brokenness of the mind, and I would recommend it to anybody looking for a contemporary read with real personality.
Debbie, the young protagonist, is bitter, angry, anxious, wounded and vastly unlikeable at times. But she is also vulnerable, loyal, repentant and introspective, and a brilliant example of the raw humanity in all of the above.
Her neighbourhood family (a motley band of dairy farmers, drunkards and dream interpreters) is portrayed with nostalgia and fondness, but tinged with the embarrassment and judgement of youth. And then there are the deeper issues centred around her mother and uncle, which are sharp and heartbreaking, and take you on a rollercoaster of tears, laughs, lurching shock and unexpected joy.
This is part coming of age novel, part sensitive look at the vastness and brokenness of the mind, and I would recommend it to anybody looking for a contemporary read with real personality.