The Virgin Suicides - Jeffrey Eugenides

TW: Suicide

As a teen, I was really taken with the film, The Virgin Suicides with Kirsten Dunst. I remember watching it so much (an honour held by very few films) but everytime - it completely devastated me. I don't think I was quite mature enough to understand beyond; these beautiful young people couldn't take it anymore so they ended their lives.

Fast forward and I bought the book last year. I had to wait until I was emotionally ready to read it knowing that there was a very strong chance I'd be left a mess.

A few confessions:

Knowing the story as I do, I am confident in saying that I probably rushed through this book
I didn't allow myself to emotionally connect to it

But I don't regret it.

I think I will re-read this one another time; I don't think I was as ready as I thought otherwise I would have digested the story slower and with more care.

What I didn't anticipate was how stunning the writing is. Written from the perspective of one of the witnesses of the incidents, everything is explained with care, and described from the heart.

I will read this again. And I will allow myself to feel it. But for now, if you're looking for a book to hit you in the gut with emotions and what if's, then this could be the book for you.

Comments

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