A review by marina_ada
The Trial by Franz Kafka

challenging dark tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

This was the most frustrating book I've ever read. Frustrating because it made me so angry, and frustrating because I loved it. The Trial is confusing, overwhelming, infuriating and disorientating, leaving you feeling intensely uncomfortable and angry with the world. K's unforeseen arrest and his mishandled case portray the disorganization of the judiciary system, the uncontrollability of life, and the complete lack of empathy that many in power may have. K. is constantly barred from living his life as he intended, whether that be by police officers, paperwork, or the labyrinth-like government departments that leave him with no escape. The ending is sudden and shocking, the story never really ends properly, yet it weirdly feels complete. The entire experience of reading this book is deeply disturbing, yet I would most definitely do it again, and recommend that everyone do so too.