pickVanderMeer and his Southern Reach series is a study in the surreal. This installment is the ‘prequel‘. We start a point that still has anchor between Area X and the ‘lost coast‘ (Florida area, I think). We start with spies and gators and the creeping distortions of another universe. We are then transitioned into the spear provoking the events of Annihilation and beyond. Excellent. Must read other books before to fully enjoy this one.
pickAnyone reading this has probably already read the first three Southern Reach novels and so has some idea what to expect: a trippy mind-bending story, this time set in the days before the Forgotten Coast became known as Area X. It was a fascinating read, but I have to admit the first thing I did after closing it was to find a reddit thread discussing what it all might mean. Immersive and vivid, but not a light read!
pan⭐️⭐️ The #SouthernReachTrilogy did not need a “surprise 4th volume.” The final section was an utterly ridiculous stream of consciousness with what felt like 2000 f-bombs. The story got lost in f*cks. Literally. Truly a bad artistic choice. Additionally, I‘m no less confused now than I was after reading the original trilogy. Unsuccessful expeditions, weird rabbits, cryptic eyes, word-writing moss. I don‘t care about Area X anymore.
so-soNot sure if it was me or the book? It has some strong moments, especially the bunnies or the last story, but was also dry and did not engage me over long(er) periods. To me it wasn't as strong as the first three books. But at least the book itself is a beauty.
If you have read the Southern Reach trilogy you can read this book, but don't have to. If you're unfamiliar with the trilogy, I would start there first.
pickI have no idea what to say about this surprise fourth novel in Jeff Vandermeer‘s iconic Southern Reach trilogy except “What did I just read?” You may discover more questions than answers here, but, with three narrators spanning 20+ years in over 400 pages, this new entry point (not starting point) offers ever more mesmerizing, uncanny, and extreme views of Area X before Annihilation. Who could resist?
An additional book to Vandermeer's Southern Reach trilogy feels entirely unnecessary, but I'm sure I'll read it. I do like the cover designs for the new editions.
https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/4/24120983/jeff-vandermeer-absolution-southern-r...
Absolution: A Southern Reach Novel | 
