The Heart’s Invisible Furies by John Boyne

This book was recommended to me by a lifelong friend who claimed it to be his favorite, which, after reading, perfectly complies with his elevated taste levels.

I love the way Boyne writes—descriptive and intricate in ways that put the characters and their dialogues right next to you, on the couch, entertaining you with what could be a real life performance. The constant ebb and flow of this novel kept me on my toes the entire way through; Boyne dropped breadcrumbs that I happily (and torturously) lapped up as I clung onto the hope of paths crossed, and realizations made.

I recognize that I’m being dreadfully vague as I navigate the aversion to certain spoilers, because I don’t want to ruin even the feeling you’ll have while indulging in this 580 page read. Making your way through each subtle chapter, you’ll find by the end that you’ve experienced an entire life and all of its peripherals, each emotion displayed and explored. Sadness, grief & loss are accompanied by wit, charm & laughter; anger shows up in between, here and there. It’s all very complicated, as life usually is; no straight lines or smooth story arcs to be found. I prefer it that way.

The Heart’s Invisible Furies is all-in-all a portrait of acceptance, presented to us in many shapes, forms, and journeys, each as interesting and impressive as the last.