75 pages 2 hours read

Ruth Ozeki

The Book of Form and Emptiness

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Book of Form and Emptiness by Ruth Ozeki follows teenage Benny Oh who, after his father's death, begins hearing the voices of inanimate objects. His and his mother's differing coping mechanisms lead them into deeper turmoil, culminating in Benny's psychiatric treatment and his mother’s hoarding. Eventually, through Zen Buddhist teachings and communal support, they find a path towards healing and acceptance.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Critics praise The Book of Form and Emptiness by Ruth Ozeki for its imaginative narrative and rich character development. The poignant exploration of grief and mental health resonates deeply. However, some find its pacing uneven and certain plot elements overly fantastical, detracting from its realism. Overall, it's a thought-provoking and heartfelt read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Book of Form and Emptiness?

Fans of literary fiction with a touch of magical realism, who enjoy introspective, character-driven narratives, will find The Book of Form and Emptiness by Ruth Ozeki captivating. Similar to Haruki Murakami's Kafka on the Shore and Elizabeth Strout's Olive Kitteridge, it blends poignant human experiences with a richly imaginative world.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Magical Realism

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

Fantasy

Themes

Identity: Mental Health

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Emotions/Behavior: Grief

Topics

Mental Illness