"Here They Come" by Yannick Murphy is an incredibly emotional and introspective novel that touches upon the themes of loss, grief, and the fragile nature of our existence. The story is set in a small Vermont town and revolves around the Birch family as they try to navigate through the aftermath of a devastating accident and the subsequent unraveling of their once-stable lives.
What sets this book apart is its focus on character development. The author beautifully crafted the narrative in a way that allows readers to deeply connect with each member of the Birch family. The protagonist, Paul, is a sculptor who possesses a keen eye for observing the world around him. Through his unique and thought-provoking observations, readers are prompted to question their own perspectives on life and the people they encounter.
Murphy's writing style is poetic and evocative, capturing the raw and complex emotions experienced by the characters with great depth. Each character has their own distinct voice, struggles, and desires, which makes them relatable and compelling. The author skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives and experiences.
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The exploration of grief and loss in "Here They Come" is especially poignant. The readers are taken on a journey through the various stages of grief, experiencing the profound pain and confusion alongside the characters. What makes the portrayal of grief so impactful is the author's willingness to confront the messy and uncomfortable aspects of this emotional journey, showcasing the complexity of emotions that arise in the face of tragedy.
Overall, "Here They Come" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that dives deep into the human psyche. It is a story about love, loss, and the remarkable resilience of the human spirit. With Yannick Murphy's beautiful prose and compelling characters, this book is an absolute must-read for those seeking an emotionally resonant and profoundly moving experience.
What are readers saying?
Yannick Murphy's novel "Here They Come" has garnered a range of responses from readers. The story centers around Leah, a 12-year-old girl who is being raised by her father following her mother's passing.
Some readers applaud Yannick Murphy's distinctive writing style, admiring the author's ability to capture the perspective of a child with authenticity and rawness. They appreciate the straightforward and concise language that adds to the book's overall charm. These readers are able to relate to Leah's perspective and find enjoyment in the occasional moments of humor that punctuate the story.
On the flip side, some reviewers criticize the writing style as disjointed and confusing. They struggled to form a connection with the characters and felt that the narrative lacked depth. These readers were left unsatisfied by the ambiguous ending and felt that the story lacked a clear direction.
Opinions on the pacing of the book varied as well. While some found the slower pace to be a refreshing departure from more action-packed novels, appreciating the focus on the intricacies of everyday life, others felt that the sluggish pace impeded their engagement with the story.
Character development also divided readers' opinions. Some lauded the authentic portrayal of Leah's emotions and growth throughout the book, considering her a multi-faceted and relatable protagonist. Conversely, others found the characters to be one-dimensional and lacking in depth, which hindered their ability to fully invest in the story.
HereTheyCome BookClub ReadingList