All Fours: A Novel

Nice book, great writing, in a very original way. Not good for People who likes stories normally told.

This novel is engaging and well-paced, drawing the reader into its story from the first page. The characters are thoughtfully developed, with distinct voices and motivations that feel realistic. Dialogue flows naturally, helping to create a strong sense of place and atmosphere throughout the book. The plot balances tension and character development effectively, keeping the reader invested in the outcome without feeling rushed. Themes are explored with subtlety, allowing for reflection without being heavy-handed. The writing style is clear and accessible while maintaining literary quality. Overall, All Fours is a compelling read that holds attention from start to finish. It’s well-suited for readers who enjoy character-driven stories with thoughtful plots and immersive storytelling.

The best thing about reading Miranda July's books is that she gives you a sense that it is perfectly okay to be you, as you are. This book was a bit intense at times for me as the protagonist experiences some heavy preoccupation mentally and the writer takes you right along with her. But it was relatable as are the self reflections she has that help her get through. It is a book about trauma and transitions and it explores a lot of themes that in the past were taboo. It is so refreshing to read a book that acknowledges the struggle of going through menopause candidly and follows a woman experiencing those struggles compassionately. One of my favourite parts of the book was spending some time studying the cover art after finishing the read. It's really a beautiful experience to see so much intelligence and beauty worked into the cover, and how poignantly it expresses the message of the story.

Buena y entretenida novela, aunque esperaba mucho más por todo el revuelo que generó.

Sometimes it feels like everyone is talking about a book. Then you realise that everyone is only the small sample of reviewers from papers you regularly read and the radio station you listen to on your commute, and a few literary inclined friends, which in this case were predominantly female. This narrow everyone was talking excitedly about, and hyperbolically extolling the merits of this book. I felt compelled to read it, to be part of the conversation. Once I had finished reading, it became apparent that I went through it dispassionately, and found it neither as transgressive, daring, bold, funny, revelatory, insightful, profound, or “for our time and age” as the previously described everyone claimed it was. Am I the odd one out? It is possible.