50 pages • 1 hour read
A Constellation of Vital Phenomena
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Book Brief
416
Novel • Fiction
Chechnya • 2000s
2013
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
A Constellation of Vital Phenomena by Anthony Marra is set in 2004 in a Chechen village where Akhmed finds his friend Dokka's daughter Havaa hiding after Dokka's capture by Federalist soldiers. Akhmed takes Havaa to a hospital in the nearby town, run by a skilled but troubled surgeon named Sonja, who reluctantly agrees to care for Havaa. The novel delves into their intertwined lives amidst the backdrop of war. The story includes sensitive topics such as war, torture, and loss.
Melancholic
Mysterious
Emotional
Dark
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
59,238 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Anthony Marra's A Constellation of Vital Phenomena is widely praised for its poetic prose and rich depiction of war-torn Chechnya, evoking deep empathy. Critics commend its intricate storytelling and multidimensional characters. However, some find its nonlinear structure challenging. Overall, it's regarded as a moving, masterfully crafted novel.
Who Should Read A Constellation of Vital Phenomena?
Readers who appreciate deeply human stories set against historical conflict will enjoy A Constellation of Vital Phenomena. Comparable to Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner, this novel appeals to those interested in powerful narratives of survival and connection, particularly within the backdrop of war-torn Chechnya.
59,238 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
416
Novel • Fiction
Chechnya • 2000s
2013
Adult
18+ years
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