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43 pages 1 hour read

Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009

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Book Brief

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Olga Tokarczuk

Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Poland • Contemporary

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead by Olga Tokarczuk is a darkly humorous and satirical literary murder mystery set in a remote Polish village. Narrated by Janina Duszejko, a 60-something woman who is a vegetarian and astrology enthusiast, the story follows a series of mysterious deaths among local hunters, which coincide with Janina's belief in animal retribution. The novel explores themes of interconnectedness, the value of all life, and the role of outsiders challenging societal norms. Topics include the killing and exploitation of animals, violence, and death.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Melancholic

Dark

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

4.1

121,175 ratings

73%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead by Olga Tokarczuk is praised for its unique blend of mystery and philosophical inquiry, with a protagonist who captivates readers through her unconventional views. Positives highlight its lyrical prose and thought-provoking themes. Some critique its pacing and eccentric narrative style, which might not appeal to all.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead?

Readers who relish thought-provoking, unconventional mysteries with philosophical undertones will find Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead by Olga Tokarczuk captivating. Fans of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson or The Secret History by Donna Tartt will appreciate its intricate narrative and rich, reflective prose.

4.1

121,175 ratings

73%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Janina Duszejko

Janina is an older woman in her sixties living alone in a cottage in the Table Mountains. She is considered eccentric by others and believes that astrology explains life events. Passionate about animal rights, she opposes hunting.

Big Foot is a local poacher known for his cruelty towards animals. Although he is already dead when the story begins, his death influences Janina's actions.

Oddball is Janina's nearest neighbor, known for his meticulous nature. He is a man of few words and remains loyal to Janina.

Dizzy is one of Janina's former English students, a tech specialist with an imaginative interest in literature. He collaborates with Janina to translate William Blake's work and tries to protect her.

Good News is a young woman running the village resale shop. Despite hardships, she maintains a positive attitude and becomes one of Janina’s closest friends.

Boros is an entomologist studying an endangered beetle species in Janina's village. He aids Janina in her investigations and later helps her evade the police.

The Commandant is the head of the local police, dismissive of Janina’s complaints about hunting, and part of the hunting group.

Innerd is a wealthy local businessman involved in dubious activities. As a hunter, he represents the wealth and entitlement Janina opposes.

The President leads the mushroom pickers’ society and is known for his grandiose personality. An avid hunter, he becomes one of Janina’s targets.

Father Rustle is a parish priest who supports hunting, despite his religious role, stirring Janina’s animosity.

Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Poland • Contemporary

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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