Play Book Tag discussion

How High We Go in the Dark by Sequoia Nagamatsu - 4* - My Review

In 2030, Cliff’s daughter, Clara, has died in an accident while researching climate change near the arctic circle. Clara had discovered an Ice Age girl in the melting permafrost, whose body is infected with an ancient plague virus. Then it turns into one of the saddest books I’ve ever read. The virus spreads. It initially targets children.

It is a series of interrelated dark short stories with a few recurring characters. Some very creative ideas are expressed. The structure is unconventional, with portions written in different points of view and taking great leaps through time and space. One of the main themes is the importance of forming interpersonal connections. It is an exploration of grief and loss positioned within pandemic and climate change scenarios. The last few stories add a new dimension to the range of interpretations. I admired it and will look forward to reading another book by this author.

If you are sensitive to reading about the deaths of children, you might consider skipping the second story. I would not recommend this book to anyone feeling depressed.

Great review Joy.

I rated the book highly. I hate to say I "enjoyed" a book that has so many sad parts - and very, very dark. But lots of great themes to think about.

Sue wrote: "Great review Joy.

I rated the book highly. I hate to say I "enjoyed" a book that has so many sad parts - and very, very dark. But lots of great themes to think about."
Thanks Sue. Glad it worked for you, too. I was actually quite surprised that I liked it so much given how dark it is. Those are usually not for me, but there is something about the writing that touched me deeply.