Before We Disappear by Shaun David Hutchinson

Challenge #32 ~ “A book by an author who uses three names.”

beforewedisappear

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

My opinion in three sentences:

With Hutchinson as one of my favourite authors, I was very excited for this, yet simultaneously nervous after A Complicated Love Story Set in Space didn’t quite live up to my expectations last year. I needn’t have worried at all, however, as this was Hutchinson’s usual high standard – twisting tale, packing a punch, and some really lovable protagonists. Sure, it’s more predictable than most of his other stories and the magic element is never fully explained, but neither does anything to detract from the overall tale (and the incredible way in which it’s told).

(Without spoiling anything) the best bit:

I particularly liked how refreshing this book was, both to those who’ve read Hutchinson before and those who haven’t. The setting and context (even without considering the artistic liberties Hutchinson takes with it) is not a common one, especially in YA literature, and the magic element doesn’t particularly dominate or drive the storyline, either. Plus, for those well-versed in Hutchinson’s work, it’s a rather different work from him, yet one that still delivers the expected unusual adventure and gorgeous writing style.

A warning for the book:

In retrospect, I’m not entirely sure how the magic fitted in the bigger picture of this world at all, and from a distanced, critiquing standpoint, the world-building would probably best be described as passable. However, as often happens with Hutchinson’s books, I was so absorbed and swept away by the story that any literary analysis was reserved for once it was all finished. So, whilst it’s not his most perfect work from an analytical perspective, don’t let that put you off reading what is both an enjoyable and pleasantly-different tale.

Recommended for fans of: