[Published in SCAD District]

https://scaddistrict.com/im-booked-bewilderment/

Happy summer, and welcome to another I’m Booked review! With more free time, there’s more time to read books! Today, I’ll be talking about “Bewilderment” by Richard Powers.

As someone who loves the outdoors, I am always searching for a book that makes me want to go on a hike. “Bewilderment” initially caught my attention because of this. It’s a touching father-son story in the same vein as “Flowers for Algernon” by Daniel Keyes (another favorite of mine.)

“Bewilderment” documents the life of a scientist, Theo, and his son, Robin, shortly after the death of their wife/mother. As Theo attempts to learn more about new-found planets, he also works on Robin’s social struggles as they experiment with the brain patterns of his mother. If this sounds confusing, it’s because it is. My brain does not readily understand STEM-related topics, but I still found this book enjoyable in other aspects.

The father-son relationship is endearing and entertaining to read. The story emphasizes today’s problems like climate change and it’s dangers. Overall, it’s emotional and raw and often heavy, but I enjoyed how it echos our reality and points out our flaws. I also personally loved the camping scenes that reminded me of a warm summer outdoors.

To give a quick taste of this story, here is one of my favorite quotes: “Nobody’s perfect, she liked to say. But, man, we all fall short so beautifully.” Although I wasn’t constantly entertained, I still enjoyed the overall experience of the book and have thought about it frequently since I finished it. I would suggest it, especially if you enjoyed “Flowers for Algernon.” I’ll be back later this summer with another review, but until then, I’m booked.

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I’m Booked: “Bewilderment”