Book Review: Under This Forgetful Sky by Lauren Yero
There’s something undeniably captivating about diving into a dystopian world, especially when it promises the allure of advanced technology and a rich cultural backdrop. When I stumbled upon "Under This Forgetful Sky," the debut novel from Lauren Yero, I was drawn in by the tantalizing glimpse of exploration and adventure. With the book garnering a plethora of five-star ratings on Goodreads, I was eager to see what made it resonate so profoundly with others. However, as I turned the pages, I found myself in a different reality—one that left me, unfortunately, wanting more.
Set in a technologically advanced dystopian society divided into the Upper and Lower cities, this standalone novel pivots around the character Paz, whose journey is filled with promise and potential. At its core, the story attempts to engage with themes of class division and cultural richness, particularly through the inclusion of South American cultures and languages. Yero’s lyrical prose is a definite highlight, illuminating her potential as a storyteller. The writing style glimmers with expressive details, pushing readers to stay engaged through moments of intrigue and suspense.
Yet, despite these commendable elements, the book leaves us grappling with its world-building. I found the concept of the Upper and Lower City perplexing; the divisions felt arbitrary at times, lacking the depth needed to understand their coexistence. It wasn’t until I had plowed through nearly 60% of the book that the reasoning behind their stark separation was vaguely outlined, culminating in an unsatisfying explanation. The absence of clarity on why this technological marvel, the Upper City, remained isolated from its surroundings hampered the immersive experience we so crave in dystopian fiction.
Characterization brought mixed feelings, too. Paz’s evolution felt authentic and relatable, yet I was left puzzled by Yumi’s portrayal as a Pakistani character. His identity didn’t seem to play a significant role in the narrative, raising questions that lingered with me long after the final page. The decision to depict Yumi partaking in alcohol felt perplexing, especially considering the character’s cultural background. It felt like a missed opportunity to explore deeper themes rather than a mere footnote in his character arc.
The intertwining of Spanish language throughout the narrative was another layer that intrigued me, though it came with its own challenges. While I appreciated the effort, some sentences lacked translations, creating barriers that dimmed the experience for non-Spanish readers, like my South Korean friend, who struggled with the language. This inconsistency felt like an oversight for a multicultural narrative aiming to be fully inclusive.
Ultimately, while "Under This Forgetful Sky" certainly shines in moments of beauty and cultural richness, it falls short in creating a cohesive and immersive world. Readers seeking a compelling, intricately crafted dystopian narrative may find their expectations unmet, much like my own experience. However, for those who appreciate lyrical prose and character-driven stories, there is still much to admire.
In closing, Lauren Yero’s debut does indeed show promise, and I believe those drawn to unique cultural elements or lyrical storytelling might find something to appreciate in these pages. For me, though, the reading experience felt disjointed, leaving a bittersweet impression that lingers like an unfinished melody.
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