Mermaid moon

Unexpectedly complex and enjoyable, doubly so because of how utterly improbable it was that I would ever hear of it, let alone read it: I feel fortunate and am thankful to my friend A. for placing it in my hands.

It's a bit long, but large print so it goes by quickly. A few slightly irksome side plots, made up for by the quality of the writing and the story. And then, three-quarters of the way through, whoa. Let's just say, I didn't see that coming, then that or that or that. There are some dark twists and uncomfortable resolutions. What I loved is that this is not a morally ambiguous book - it's a morally clear one taking place in a less-clear world. Young (and some less-young) adults would do well to read Cokal's portrayals of vanity and greed; the consequences of falling for shallow charismatic “leaders” or of acting in haste; and some lovely takes on kindness and strength.

In one of those curious quirks of fate, I finished the book on the same day I listened to the Invisibilia Trust Fail episode. The timing was eerily appropiate: trust (social and interpersonal) fascinates me, its breakdown terrifies me. I can't say much more without spoilers but should you get the chance to read this book – and I do recommend that you do so! – you may want to give that podcast a listen beforehand.