By Joseph Walter
For each of the recommendations in my "Quarantine Quick Reviews" mini-series, I'll describe the subject's plot/scenario, reasons why you might like it ("The Good"), and reasons why you might not ("The Bad.")
Whether you decide to check out any of my recommendations is completely up to you!
Let's get started!
"Annihilation" by Jeff VanderMeer
Overview: A team is charged with entering the mysterious "Area X" (a stretch of land enveloped by a phenomenon of unknown origin) to record their findings and report back to their superiors.
The Good: This book actually made me think I was insane. Other than that, I don't want to risk giving anything away, so all I'll say is that it's a gripping, easy-to-read book that defies writing conventions, and tells a story that is simultaneously awe-inspiring and dread-inducing.
The Bad: This book actually made me think I was insane. But that's also kind of good a thing, so never mind. Also, skip the movie. It not only doesn't do the source material justice, it completely misses what makes the book so engrossing and memorable in the first place.
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