Greta Logan's Reviews > Goldengrove

Here is a book that makes me wish Goodreads had a three-and-a-half-stars option, because although I don't think this book deserves four stars, it definitely deserves more than three.

"Goldengrove's" best quality is the writing. Francine Prose obviously understands what works in writing, and she manages to bring across a very powerful voice and unique style in this book. The imagery and descriptions are just gorgeous, quite frankly. It almost makes me feel like I'm in a half-real, half-mystical world even though the book is set completely in the real world. The story follows thirteen-year-old Nico, whose beautiful and talented older sister, Margaret, suddenly dies. The book follows Nico and her family's struggles with dealing with the death of Margaret, Nico entering into adolescence, and the questions that every person asks when faced with death.

So why didn't I give this book five or even four stars? I just didn't feel like it went anywhere. It had a very loosely episodic plot structure. Something different happened in every chapter, and all the events were somewhat related but easily stood out on their own as well. I also feel like we didn't get to know Margaret well enough; I would have liked her death to come a little later than it did. The last chapter of the book might as well have been a cliff note at the bottom of the page - wrapping up everything in a neat little bow much too quickly. I actually think the ending to the second-to-last chapter would have made a great ending to the book.

Even with its slight plot problems, "Goldengrove" is a deeply insightful and beautifully written novel. Be forewarned: it is very depressing and has very few funny moments. If you can stomach a very sad read, you should definitely check this one out.