Sorrowland

by Rivers Solomon
Sorrowland cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Magical Realism
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Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 3050
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781529119138
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2021-05-06
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Vern, a woman on the run, gives birth to twins and raises them in isolation, only to discover her body is undergoing terrifying changes. To understand her metamorphosis, she must delve into the violent history of the religious compound she fled and the broader legacies of dehumanization and medical experimentation. Sorrowland is a gripping exploration of identity, trauma, and the monstrous systems that shape our lives. The novel's lush prose and unflinching examination of racism and marginalization make it a powerful and unforgettable read.

Reviews
The Literary Addict · 2021-07-16
triumphant 4.50

The reviewer found the book to be a triumphant and genre-bending novel that explores a nightmarish yet familiar landscape.

This reviewer was thoroughly impressed with the book, describing it as a triumphant and genre-bending novel. The story follows a young woman as she navigates a nightmarish yet recognisable landscape, attempting to create a new life for herself. The reviewer appreciated the book's ability to blend different genres and its thought-provoking themes.

Quick quotes

    A triumphant, genre-bending novel, following a young woman through a nightmarish yet recognisable landscape as she attempts to create a new life for herself.

    The book is a powerful exploration of identity, trauma, and resilience.

    The writing is evocative and immersive, making it easy to become fully engaged in the story.

The Guardian · 2021-05-18
moving 4.00

The reviewer found the book to be moving, tense, and life-affirming, though it had some flaws.

This reviewer had a largely positive view of the book, describing it as moving, tense, and life-affirming. They appreciated the book's ability to balance its dark themes with moments of hope and resilience. However, they noted that the book suffered from some minor flaws that prevented it from being a perfect read.

Quick quotes

    I really enjoyed this; had no idea what to expect and thought it was moving, tense, justifiably angry and also very life-affirming.

    The book is a powerful exploration of themes such as identity, trauma, and resilience.

    It suffered from some minor flaws that prevented it from being a perfect read.

Goodreads · 2021-05-04
mixed 3.50

The reviewer had mixed feelings about the book, enjoying it but not as much as expected. They appreciated the unique elements but found some parts lacking.

This book left the reviewer with mixed emotions. While they appreciated the unique storytelling and the strong protagonist, they couldn't help but feel it didn't quite live up to their expectations, especially after enjoying the author's previous work. The story explores themes of identity and resilience, but some elements felt underdeveloped.

Quick quotes

    I wished I loved this more, especially after I really enjoyed The Deep.

    Vern is an albino Black girl who has fled her cult-like community.

    The book has a unique voice and an intriguing premise.

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