Scan barcode
A review by ahill33
Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell
emotional
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
So this is a book that I never would have picked to read for myself, but I'm glad that my book club picked it!
I thought it was a very interesting (fictionalized) read about Shakespeare and his family. Every character had their own voice, and the stream of consciousness technique really helped the reader to connect with the characters. I liked how the first part of the novel jumped between two time periods: the "present" and when the parents first met. On that note, let me say, I loved Agnes. I thought she was so compelling with all of her visions and feelings. Also, my second favorite character was her brother. I know, he didn't have a huge role in the book, but he gets the best brother award from me.
I was very fascinated with how O'Farrell described events, and I enjoyed her writing. I really could immerse myself in the world. I would highly recommend it if you like complex characters, slow-paced, historical fiction novels.
I thought it was a very interesting (fictionalized) read about Shakespeare and his family. Every character had their own voice, and the stream of consciousness technique really helped the reader to connect with the characters. I liked how the first part of the novel jumped between two time periods: the "present" and when the parents first met. On that note, let me say, I loved Agnes. I thought she was so compelling with all of her visions and feelings. Also, my second favorite character was her brother. I know, he didn't have a huge role in the book, but he gets the best brother award from me.
I was very fascinated with how O'Farrell described events, and I enjoyed her writing. I really could immerse myself in the world. I would highly recommend it if you like complex characters, slow-paced, historical fiction novels.