Review: Aquarium
Single mom Sheri does the best she can for herself and her 12 year old daughter, Caitlin. She works hard but there’s never enough money so, rather than send Caitlin to after school care, she buys her a pass to the local aquarium. That’s fine with Caitlin, though, because she loves spending time with all the fish there. She meets an older gentleman who seems to like the fish as much as she does. Caitlin begins to look forward to seeing him and casually mentions him to her mother, never imagining her mother’s reaction. What follows turns their lives upside down.
When I read Diane’s review of Aquarium, by David Vann, I knew I had to read it. It’s been a while since I’ve found a book as addictive as this one. It’s the story of wounded individuals trying to make their way through life. My life is very different from all of theirs, yet, somehow, I could relate to them. Vann is a masterful storyteller and makes even the most damaged character seem redeemable.
Sheri is struggling to get past the consequences of her troubled childhood. She loves Caitlin but doesn’t always make the best decisions for her. Caitlin, with her love of marine life, is a breath of fresh air. She wants her mom to be happy and hopes for a “normal” life.
The storyline of Aquarium is terrific! It’s disturbing at times, to be sure, but also very relevant for many people today. I didn’t see the ending coming but felt very satisfied as I finished the book. As an added bonus, there are full color photos of gorgeous fish throughout the book. I can’t wait to read more of Vann’s work.
Review copy provided by Grove Atlantic. I am an Indiebound Affiliate.
This sounds like a book that might surprise – the blurb suggests a certain plot line but perhaps offers something else. Would it be a good book for club discussion?
Sounds like a good one, I’ll keep my eye out for it!
This sound intriguing. It sound like one to get a hard copy of because of the photos. I read Diane’s review too. I’m very curious about this book now.
First Diane and now your recommendation – can’t resist! I’ve just put it on hold at the library… a hard copy so I can enjoy the photos.
You have definitely peaked my curiosity with your review.
I’m intrigued so I have added it to my TBR list.
I’ve never heard of him (along with a million other authors!), but it definitely sounds right up my alley.
Now I’m curious to read this one. Great post!
I really liked two earlier books of his I read. I guess I’m going to have to get this one.
A new author for me. Curious about this book.
Sounds like a winner! I like finding new authors to try out, so thanks for the heads up.
i love books that are addictive!
I’m sold! Sounds so good and let’s face it, unique. I get tired of all the books copying Gone Girl and then proclaiming they are the same as that one. This sounds like it could be melancholy but also inspirational, so thanks!
Loved your review and adding the title to my list.
Very intriguing!
Addictive, describes this one perfectly. Thanks for the mention Kathy and glad u enjoyed it as much as I did.
Thanks for putting this on my radar. I’m intrigued!
This one is still on my TBR. I have been curious about it since Diane’s review, so I am looking forward to reading it.
Thanks for bringing this book to my attention. It sounds really interesting.
Vann is typically very dark. I’ve love his stuff in the past. This story sounds a little different from his other books.
I have this in audio so I won’t get to see the pictures of the fish. I’m looking forward to reading this one. There have been several glowing reviews.
This sounds great. I hadn’t heard of it before but I’m definitely going to look for it now.
This one is totally new to me. Sounds wonderful!