The Book of Form and Emptiness

The Book of Form and Emptiness cover
Good Books rating 3.67

Technical:
  • ID: 1307
  • Added: 2025-10-04
  • Updated: 2025-10-04
  • Formats: 7
  • Reviews: 3
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Reviews
Seven Circumstances · 2022-08-19
mixed 2.50

The novel explores emotional trauma through the eyes of a teenage boy, Benny, who encounters fantastical characters. The reviewer found the story complex but struggled to connect with it.

The reviewer acknowledges the novel's complexity and the emotional depth of its protagonist, Benny. They appreciate the fantastical elements and the way the story deals with trauma. However, they mention that the narrative's complexity made it difficult for them to fully engage with the book. Despite this, they recognize the novel's potential and the skill involved in its creation.


Quick quotes

    This novel is indeed about a teenage boy, 'Benny', who gets involved with fantastical characters as a result of emotional trauma.

    The story is complex and deals with deep emotional issues.

    I just could not get into it, despite its evident strengths.

The Guardian · 2021-10-10
brilliant 4.00

This novel is a big, polyphonic, often comic, magical-realist collage that interrogates pressing issues with depth and wit. The prose is inventive and the themes are thought-provoking.

The reviewer highlights the novel's ambitious scope and its ability to blend humor with profound themes. They appreciate the inventive prose and the way the story weaves together diverse elements. The novel's exploration of contemporary issues is noted as particularly strong, making it a standout work. The reviewer also praises the book's magical-realist elements, which add a unique layer to the narrative.


Quick quotes

    A big, polyphonic, often comic, magical-realist collage of a novel.

    Interrogates the most pressing issues of our time with depth and wit.

    Ozeki’s inventive prose and the novel's thought-provoking themes make it a standout work.

Fiction Writers Review · 2021-09-20
excellent 4.50

The novel reminds readers of the power of books and the magical exchange between writer and reader. It is a heartfelt exploration of literary themes.

The reviewer emphasizes the novel's celebration of the power of books and the unique connection between writers and readers. They find the story heartfelt and deeply engaging, highlighting its exploration of literary themes. The reviewer appreciates the novel's ability to evoke a sense of wonder and the magical elements that enrich the narrative. They also note the novel's emotional resonance and its ability to connect with readers on a profound level.


Quick quotes

    It's a novel that reminds you of the power of books.

    Exploring the magical exchange between writer and reader.

    A heartfelt exploration of literary themes that resonates deeply.