The Circumference of the World

Review: The Circumference of the World by Lavie Tidhar

Overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3 stars)

The Circumference of the World by Lavie Tidhar is a mind-bending exploration of reality, blending elements of science fiction, mystery, and philosophical musings. Set in a world where multiple dimensions intersect and truth is elusive, Tidhar takes readers on a journey that spans from the emergence of life to the farthest reaches of the universe.

The story revolves around a mathematician, a book dealer, and a mobster, all of whom are caught in a desperate search for a notorious book that mysteriously disappears once read. Only the enigmatic author, a rakish sci-fi writer, holds the key to whether his popular novel is a work of truth or an elaborate hoax.

Tidhar's writing in The Circumference of the World is nothing short of exceptional. His prose is beautifully crafted, with a lyrical quality that captivates the reader from start to finish. The author's ability to seamlessly blend genres and explore complex ideas is commendable. Each page is filled with vivid imagery and thought-provoking concepts that challenge our understanding of reality.

However, despite the brilliance of Tidhar's writing, the plot of the novel can be disorienting and at times difficult to follow. While some readers may appreciate the intricate puzzle-like structure that mirrors the elusive nature of truth in the story, others may find themselves overwhelmed and disconnected from the narrative. The constant shifts between dimensions and timelines can make it challenging to fully engage with the characters and their motivations.

As someone who typically does not gravitate towards science fiction, I approached The Circumference of the World with an open mind, hoping to expand my reading choices. I must admit that while I appreciated Tidhar's writing style and creativity, the plot itself felt overwhelming and often went over my head. It is worth noting that this may be a personal preference, and readers more familiar with science fiction or those who enjoy intricate, puzzle-like narratives may find this book more enjoyable.

One aspect of the book that stood out to me was the stunning cover design. The cover art perfectly captures the essence of the story, with its cosmic imagery and intriguing symbolism. It is a testament to the attention to detail put into this publication.

In conclusion, The Circumference of the World by Lavie Tidhar is an ambitious and intellectually stimulating novel that pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling. While the writing is exceptional and the exploration of multiple dimensions and philosophical concepts is fascinating, the convoluted plot may prove challenging for some readers. If you are a fan of science fiction and enjoy intricate narratives that blur the lines between reality and fiction, this book may be a perfect fit for you. However, if you prefer more straightforward storytelling or are new to the genre, it might be worth approaching this book with caution.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Reading a new Lavie Tidhar novel is always a treat. You can count on engaging prose paired with an inventive story and The Circumference of the World certainly fits that bill.

Jumping between seemingly unrelated narrative threads, Tidhar spins a tale about an elusive novel that galvanizes everyone in its orbit. We rarely stick with one thread long enough to reach a resolution, but in the end, the sections tie together in an intriguing way.

If you're looking for a brisk read from a unique voice in science fiction, give this one a shot!

My thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

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