Honestly, the formatting threw me off quite a bit. The long-winded monologue was just too... long-winded. It dialed back the believability (?) of the piece. I don't particularly enjoy "tell and not show" kinds of books - in this case it makes sense with the formatting, but just doesn't align to my personal reading tastes. The MC also talked in circles quite a bit - there were definitely full circle moments with some of the themes or musings but a lot of it felt really repetitive. I also felt a bit uneasy with the narration itself - i just didn't enjoy the production as much as I normally do.

All in all, I did enjoy the story itself. It was weird, introspective, mysterious, and overall an engaging narrative. I liked that it captured the immaturity of a 19 year old girl - in novels today where the teenage FMC is the best assassin on the planet or imbued with god-like powers, it was refreshing to hear from a character who's instability comes in part from her age (but also just from the weird little town she lives in).

well this was an interesting way to tell a story and I have to say this will be going on my best reads list for 2025

Original, touching but nothing too memorable for me personally. For a quiet rainy day when feeling introspective. Feel like the audiobook is the best way to digest the story.

not enough meat on the bone for me; needed more than the main character rambling about nothing constantly.

Spanish literature rarely disappoints, but I had expected a bit more of this one.

It is one big monologue by 19-year old Lea who meets a stranger in her tiny village and tells him her life story. Growing up at the end of the world, her close friends, caring for her disabled sister. She is fed up and really wants to leave the town, but it's not an easy decision.

Because the entire book a monologue, the narrative voice and the narrator's voice extremely important and while Lea is smart and funny, the narrator's tone was very whiny, almost crying (whereas one of Lea's problems is precisely that she cannot cry).

I probably would have given a four star if I had read a physical copy, because especially the relationship with her sister is very well done and quite emotional.

3,5

This was a really weird little book with a lot going on. That's not necessary a bad thing either. I actually really like weird books so this was right up my alley. The rural setting with the slow creeping tension made this virtually impossible to put down. I just had to know what was happening to this little town. I also found the narrative style to really work for this story. It actually reminded me of an old folk tale the way it was told. This was a seriously good book and I look forward to reading more of Levi's work.

Elisa Levi's "That's All I Know" offers a poignant exploration of self-discovery, identity, and the complexities of modern relationships. The narrative is both relatable and thought-provoking, as it delves into the ups and downs of life with a raw honesty that resonates deeply with readers.

The story follows the journey of the protagonist as she navigates the challenges of adulthood, grappling with personal expectations, societal pressures, and the quest for authenticity. Levi’s writing is engaging and fluid, filled with moments of humor and introspection that keep the reader invested in the character's evolution.

One of the standout elements of the book is its exploration of friendship and the bonds that shape our lives. Levi skillfully portrays the intricacies of these relationships, highlighting both their supportive and challenging aspects. The dialogue feels genuine and relatable, making the characters feel like friends rather than mere figments of fiction.

While the pacing of the narrative sometimes lags in certain sections, the emotional depth is consistently strong, and there are moments of profound insight that make the journey worthwhile. The exploration of themes such as mental health, self-acceptance, and the search for purpose adds layers to the story and encourages reflection long after the final page.

Overall, "That's All I Know" is an honest and heartfelt read that captures the essence of navigating life's uncertainties. Elisa Levi’s ability to blend humor with vulnerability makes this book a compelling choice for anyone looking for a thoughtful reflection on the human experience. It’s a journey worth taking, leaving readers with a sense of hope and an appreciation for the beauty of imperfection.

A stunning, quiet novel about a small town and the abducting forest, which has taken a dog as its next victim.

That's All I Know by Elisa Levi. The title alone gives you an illustrative glimpse of the ride this tiny but mighty book will take you on. This newcomer to the town has lost his dog in the woods that line the small town where Little Lea, our narrator, lives. She warns him about the reputable forest and its victims, which, once they are gone, are never seen again. She offers to accompany him as he waits for his dog to leave the forest. She confides in him, telling him nearly every aspect of her life leading up to that point. every little gossip about the town-goers, what her family is going through, and her bleak love life.
At first, I was hesitant.... the tone and dialogue of the novel felt sparse and disconcerting. But as you listen to Lea tell her story, you feel that spark that we all chase with novels, that warm feeling of realness and complete trust in the author. She leads you on this journey as you sit with the newcomer and learn what this girl could do in this bleak town. And as someone who grew up in a small town where everyone knows everyone and you feel a constant eye on you, this book puts the feeling into words. Her yearning for something new and different really connected with me.
Also, I love how Levi actually had a real plot and ending. Most contemporary novels seem as if they are allergic to wrapping up a novel with a bow, which should be most writers' goal. So I will shout from the rooftops about this book!

A novel in one extended monologue. Little Lea lives in a remote town, somewhere in Spain, next to a forest (apocalyptic, haunted forest?). Here, next to the forest, Lea recounts her life and small town foibles to a man who has lost his dog. Life here is filled with the trauma of abandonment and feeling trapped at the end of the world. Despite the haunted imagery and language, Lea and her friends live lives of joy, expression, and yearning. As our story evolves, Lea shares more of her life with her sister Nora, who is disabled. As our narrative builds, it becomes clear we are building towards a single decision with life-altering ramifications.

Brilliantly written and undeniably powerful—I completely understand why so many people loved That’s All I Know. The voice is sharp, the emotion raw, and the style bold. But for me, it was a bit dizzying and overwhelming, even though it’s just a single monologue. Impressive, but not quite the right fit for my reading tastes.

A devastatingly beautiful story about a 19-year old woman living in a small town in Spain with her parents and her disabled older sister. She is sitting on a bench looking into the forest and tells the man (“sir”) looking for his dog to sit beside her and wait for the dog to return from the dangerous forest. Then she proceeds to “ruminate” and tells him (and us) her story of love, loss, growth, and yearning. Wonderful storytelling! I am grateful the author’s work has been both translated and recorded.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @HighBridgeAudio, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook of #ThatsAllIKnow for review purposes. Publication date: 20 May 2025. Don’t miss this one!