Review: Caraval
Stephanie Garber
Read: 12/01/17 - 12/04/17
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The book follows Scarlett during the annual, magic filled, Caraval. Each year the Caraval brims with illusions, making everything not what it seems. This year's game starts when Scarlett’s sister, Tella, is kidnapped and the participants are told to follow the clues to find her to win the prize of one wish.
I struggled with Scarlett a little bit. I understand that she is the cautious sister and usually takes the safe path, but I felt like she was only reacting to events. She wasn't putting anything in motion or causing events to happen. Scarlett just kinda played catch up because she was always one step behind.
Caraval was wonderfully descriptive. “Every window shimmered with buttery illumination, turning the flower boxes below into cradles full of stardust.” The scenes, clothing and scents were are stunningly vivid and clear.
I loved how Scarlett has colors attached to emotions. Like “Shades of the rich ruby love she’d felt during the game mixed with hues of deep-indigo hurt, turning everything just a little bit violet.”
I can see why Caraval was nominated for 2017 Goodreads “Best Debut Goodreads Author”.