2.5 stars
I received a copy of this book through Goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
First off, the hardcover edition of this book is just gorgeous. I loved the texture of the jacket itself and the design fits the feel of the book very well.
As many reviews have pointed out, not a whole lot happens in this book in terms of plot. It documents the routines and rituals of the main character and how the delicate balance becomes thrown off. Yet while the plot was rather wandering and mundane, I did find I enjoyed the writing. The book uses an interesting style that is odd yet charming. Based on that alone, I was willing to give this three stars.
I will say that some of the narration regarding the female characters was a bit odd, bordering on creepy. At times it came off as misogynistic and while the narrator was repeating things from other characters, there did not appear to be an argument against such views. Not sure if it was the translation or a cultural difference, but some of the scenes and descriptions of the Child Lady and Anna come off as weird. Nothing overt happens but there is an unsettling undertone to them that I couldn’t quite piece out. Because of this, my actual rating is more of a 2.5.
In general I enjoyed the book despite not having much of a plot. The world created on the page was fascinating and I was caught up in the routines and their disruption. Overall, a good slow-paced read.