Loss of connection and finding it again..............

People are different but yet some things are the same, the basic needs for love, connection, affirmation, warmth are the same. Maybe the outward expressions are different but the core remains the same.

Coussement surrounds her story with nature, it's beauty and how we can loose this beauty if the wall we erect around us is to high, to thick, to cold. The walls we create when we feel hurt can help us in the moment but if we keep them there long term than we loose out on that connection that we crave. These walls cut us off from the world around us and we do need this world to flourish and continue.

To be direct, I think I would’ve enjoyed this more as a short story.

MY THOUGHTS💭: The book itself is not that long, and yet, I found myself saying “let’s get to the point”. Coussement’s writing is both ethereal and transportive placing you in the light and softness of the world that surrounds our characters. While still haunting and evocative in the past that our characters must release. The contrast exists perfectly in the balance of light & dark, forgiveness & regret, and grief & love. Though beautifully written, I ultimately felt this book touched the surface of its themes and the reveal of ghost scars didn’t match the build up. I would’ve also loved to have read more about his relationship with Marianne instead of the way it was casually dropped into the story.

The book through most parts is metaphorical. A block of stone that won’t move but you must learn to live with or see the light in within your already beautiful garden that is your life. The holes formed in a wall built of despair by your own method of self preservation as you discover what it means to live, and not just survive. Ghost himself being a representation to our other characters of what lies ahead if you leave this world unresolved.

Overall this read is both a lighthearted, eccentric, and complex journey into existentialism. Where does our humanity start? Where does it end? What is the meaning of life? Does Death come for you or wait for you? I know there will be many people who will enjoy this and reflect.

Thank you Netgalley & Elephas Publishing for a copy of this read.