Book recommendation:
Finding Layla, by Meg Elison
Binge-listened all day. Still on my mind hours later.
You know the writing is effective when you feel frustrated with the main characters and yet can’t blame them at all for their behavior under the circumstances.
Content note: includes child abuse and neglect, bullying, addiction, and squalor, so perhaps skip this book if you’re not in a good emotional place for reading about them.
@taispy @bookstodon Appreciate the trigger warning.
I remember a certain scene in Doctor Sleep where a little boy was in a rough situation no little boy should ever be in. If you've read the book, you know. As a father to boys not that much older, I had a difficult time getting past that part of the book.
@dbsalk @bookstodon Glad to know the heads up is helpful!
I've certainly had to put down some otherwise good books due to unexpected disturbing content (especially if it felt shallow and exploitative).
That said, "Finding Layla" was both a tough and worthwhile read, and some folks with difficult upbringings might find Layla's attitude to be familiar or comforting. That's what kept me reading, and what has me still taking notes about my reactions a day later. Really powerful writing has echoes.
Holly 🇹🇼
David Brent 📚📖