Book review | 5/5 stars | genre – magical realism
This young mans days are numbered. Estranged from his family, living along with just his cat Cabbage a young man is unprepared for the doctors diagnosis that he has only months to live. The devil appears with a special offer: in exchange for making one thing in the world disappear, he can have one extra day of life. And so begins a very bizarre week…
(Synopsis from Goodreads)
Much like a lot of the books I mreasong this month, I noticed this one in the run up to Christmas. Then received it as another gift from my Granny. Of course the adorable black cat on the front cover, as well as my love of cats, enticed me to read this book.
Initial thoughts…
Oh I just loved reading this book! I wasn’t sure what to expect from the start but it just felt so refreshing. Each chapter sees the character banishing something from the world; it made me about how important some of these things actually are. It was a short book but I instantly felt like I knew the main character – the narration really lets you understand his pain.
My favourite moments…
- The Devil: oh this character is just hilarious; taking the form of the protagonist – the Devil is quick witted and deeply sarcastic.
- Heart-Warming Narration: it is so wonderfully written. Each passing chapter brings the characters to life; there was never a moment I didn’t enjoy reading.
- Cats: like I’ve said, I bought this book largely based on my love of cats. The protagonist‘s cat plays a fairly large roll in humanising the main character – unveiling more of his past.
Overall…
I would definitely recommend this book for those looking for something different yet great to read this year. It’s reflection of the world today is brought to life watching the character navigating the world without certain commodities. I’ve already added it to my more permanent reading pile.
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