Anima Rising by Christopher Moore: A Quirky Journey Through Time and Madness

Plot and Setting:
Anima Rising plunges readers into the vibrant and somewhat macabre world of early 20th-century Vienna, where the famed painter Gustav Klimt finds a woman, presumed dead, in the Danube canal. This woman, named Judith after one of Klimt's paintings, has no memory of her past but possesses a story that ties back to the Arctic and even the Underworld. Christopher Moore, known for his satirical and humorous take on historical and fantastical elements, crafts a narrative where Judith's journey of self-discovery intertwines with elements of science fiction and Gothic horror. The setting is rich with historical detail, though Moore's playful anachronisms and inventive twists on real historical figures like Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung add a delightful absurdity to the backdrop.

Characters:
The characters in Anima Rising are both its strength and its Achilles' heel. Judith, the undead woman seeking her identity, is compelling, albeit a bit underdeveloped in terms of depth compared to Moore's previous protagonists. Klimt, portrayed with a mix of artistic genius and human frailty, serves as an interesting lens through which to view Vienna's high society. However, the interactions with Freud and Jung, while humorous, sometimes feel more like cameos rather than integral parts of the plot. The addition of Geoff, the giant croissant-eating devil dog, adds a unique flavor to the narrative, embodying Moore's characteristic whimsy.




Humor and Style:
Moore's signature humor is very much present, offering a blend of the absurd, the witty, and the occasionally raunchy. The novel's approach to combining elements of Poor Things and Bride of Frankenstein is audacious and often results in laugh-out-loud moments. However, there are instances where the humor feels slightly forced or out of place, possibly due to the gravity of some themes like identity and existential crisis which Judith navigates.




Themes:
Central themes revolve around identity, creation, and the human (or inhuman) condition, echoing the Frankensteinian elements with a modern, comedic twist. The exploration of memory and self through Judith's character provides depth to what might otherwise be a purely comedic narrative. Moore also subtly critiques societal norms and the art world of Vienna, though these critiques are often overshadowed by the novel's more playful elements.

Conclusion:
Anima Rising is a testament to Christopher Moore's ability to weave historical settings with fantastical elements in a way that entertains while occasionally probing deeper into philosophical questions. The book might not reach the heights of some of his more critically acclaimed works due to its uneven pacing and the sometimes superficial treatment of its characters, but it remains a fun, if somewhat chaotic, read.

Rating Breakdown:
Plot & Creativity: 4/5 - A wild, imaginative plot with a unique premise.
Character Development: 3/5 - While characters are fun, they sometimes lack depth.
Humor: 4/5 - Moore's humor shines, though occasionally feels misplaced.
Setting & Atmosphere: 4.5/5 - The historical setting is well-captured, enriched by Moore's playful reinterpretations.
Thematic Depth: 3.5/5 - Themes are present but can be overshadowed by comedy.

Overall Rating: 3.8/5

Moore's Anima Rising is recommended for fans of his previous works, those who enjoy a humorous take on historical fiction, and readers looking for an escapist, quirky narrative. However, expecting a deeply philosophical or character-driven story might leave one wanting more from this particular adventure.