A Constellation of Vital Phenomena by

In a snow-covered village in Chechnya, eight-year-old Havaa watches from the woods as her father is abducted in the middle of the night by Russian soldiers. Their life-long friend and neighbour, Akhmed, has also been watching, and when he finds Havaa he knows of only one person who might be able to help. For tough-minded doctor Sonja Rabina, it's just another day of trying to keep her bombed-out, abandoned hospital going. When Akhmed arrives with Havaa, asking Sonja for shelter, she has no idea who the pair are and even less desire to take on yet more responsibilities and risk. But over the course of five extraordinary days, Sonja's world will shift on its axis, revealing the intricate pattern of connections that binds these three unlikely companions together and unexpectedly decides their fate. 'A Constellation of Vital Phenomena is simply spectacular' Ann Patchett

Reviews

Words Pages Books Blog · 2020-07-16

compelling 4.50

The novel intricately examines the relationships between characters over five dramatic days, blending past and present stories to create a compelling narrative about coincidence, betrayal, and forgiveness.

This review highlights the novel's powerful exploration of human connections amid war. It emphasizes how the intertwined stories of Akhmed, Sonja, and Havaa, along with other characters, create a rich tapestry that deeply examines the impact of relationships and the transformative power of compassion and forgiveness. The reviewer appreciates how these overlapping narratives reveal the complexity of the characters' lives and the profound effects of their choices during a brief but intense timeframe.

Quick quotes

The novel is mainly centred around how the interactions of Havaa, Akhmed, and Sonja all effect one-another and how five days can change the lives of these people.

Their stories from the past, present, and future combine to create a spectacular novel in which our relationships with people in our lives are examined.

Akhmed and Sonja reach back into their pasts to unravel the intricate mystery of coincidence, betrayal, and forgiveness that unexpectedly binds them.

The Bookbag · Ani Johnson · 2014-02-02

profound 4.75

The novel is described as a significant literary achievement with profound compassion and a sweeping narrative about love, loss, and human connections.

Ani Johnson praises the novel as a remarkable debut that masterfully portrays the impact of war on human lives through deeply drawn characters. The review highlights the emotional resonance of the story and the intricate way Marra weaves together the lives of his characters, creating a moving and memorable exploration of resilience and hope. Johnson's reflection underscores the book's power to engage readers with its rich storytelling and empathetic portrayal of suffering and survival.

Quick quotes

There is no doubt that A Constellation of Vital Phenomena is a significant achievement.

The story is a work of sweeping breadth, profound compassion, and lasting impact.

Anthony Marra masterfully explores love, loss, and the unexpected ties that bind us together.

Sydney Review of Books · 2014-02-01

ambitious 4.25

The novel is praised for its ambitious storytelling that goes beyond detailed research to deliver a tense and often absurd narrative about survival and trauma during the Chechen wars.

This review appreciates the novel's complexity and emotional depth, focusing on the tense atmosphere created by the presence of Russian soldiers and the desperate attempts to protect innocence. The reviewer values the detailed backstory of the characters, especially the fractured relationship between the sisters Sonja and Natasha, which adds layers of emotional complexity. They note the novel's blend of tension and absurdity, which enriches the narrative and highlights the human struggles amidst war.

Quick quotes

A Constellation of Vital Phenomena hinges on the story of a Chechen villager who, over five days, tries to save a young girl from a Russian death squad.

The novel flashes back into the past revealing Sonja’s painful family history and her sister Natasha’s tragic experiences.

The sisters’ relationship is prickly: as Sonja puts it to herself, she would cross the country for her sister, but not a room.

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