Utah!

So many different elements of this book I really enjoyed.

- Learning about Utah as I’ve never been there.
- The discussion of Mormons/Religion was fascinating
-A dystopia book before the end of the world is a favourite of mine.
- A road trip
-Different perspectives from different characters and seeing how they eventually intertwine.

I do not usually read post apocalyptic fiction bit I loved this novel. Im very familiar with the terrain of Utah so following a family through the state towards Zion National Park while fleeing fires and the ever present danger of Yellowstone erupting was compelling. A strange and unusual cast of characters drive this place driven novel. A fun read for sure!

I picked this book because I have Geology background. I have written papers on supervolcanoes and got really excited to see that this book would be a post-apocalyptic, but before, type book. As far as the premise goes, this is a 5-star. But, there were many challenges that I crossed while trying to get through the book.

Right from the start, I was super invested in all of the characters. I loved them all, and loved to hate a few of them. I appreciated almost all of the concepts and tough conversations that the characters had to go through and discuss. There was a real-ness to the characters that I find other authors struggling with.

There were some ironic parts that sort of made me laugh and at the same time be annoyed, and I'm not sure if it was intended to come off that way. Like, Yellowstone will erupt soon, lets go hiking or camping. Some of this just didn't seem like it would actually happen. But, maybe that's part of the denial of human culture. Pretend it isn't happening and move on. Also, relatable to present times.

Now for where I struggled. I really feel like this could have been pulled off better if it was more focused. Any difficult topic you could think of was probably touched in this novel. It was almost an ode to call out all the bad things in the world. I think focusing that down to one or two topics would have made me connect more with the issues. Or...go big or go home. Dare I say, add another 1000 pages to truly touch on and expand upon the ideas. I really feel that this could have been a series of sorts. Each book captures a different struggle.

Overall, I recommend this book for the concept and the call-out of society. There is a lot of thought provoking concepts that will make you think.

Am interesting novel that gets weighted down by trying to talk about too many recent controversies. I think it hits the hammer on the nail too many times to be very effective at getting the message across. It does provide an in-depth look at life in Utah, and confronts some perpetuating stereotypes that exist.

An interesting look at life in Utah and touches on a lot of themes but that's also kind of where it lost me. It's meanders through subjects and discusses many parts of life but doesn't focus down quite enough. That said, the characters are compelling and I did enjoy the writing style. Dark but fun, odd and atmospheric, it was a unique read but didn't quite land with me.