Raynee's Reviews > Catfish Rolling

Catfish Rolling presents an intriguing blend of magical realism and Japanese mythology, promising a tale of grief, memory, and time amidst the backdrop of a nation rocked by an earthquake. The concept of a catfish beneath Japan's islands, its movements shaping the land, sets the stage for a captivating journey.

However, while the synopsis paints a vivid picture of the story's potential, the execution falls short. The narrative lacks cohesion, feeling more like a disjointed series of vignettes rather than a cohesive whole. It's as if we're glimpsing fragments of a larger narrative without ever fully immersing ourselves in it.

While the protagonist, Sora, navigates the wild and abandoned time zones with her scientist father, the story struggles to maintain a sense of direction. As Sora searches for her missing parents and confronts the enigmatic catfish, the plot meanders, leaving the reader longing for a more focused narrative.

Despite its shortcomings, Catfish Rolling offers glimpses of brilliance, particularly in its exploration of liminal spaces and the distortion of time. Yet, these moments of intrigue are overshadowed by the story's lack of cohesion and emotional depth. Ultimately, while the title may evoke curiosity, it fails to deliver on its promise, leaving readers with a sense of indifference rather than awe.

Thank you to the publisher for a listeners copy of this book.