Post #5: Reflection

Overall, I thought that Absurdistan was an interesting novel but certainly not one I would recommend to anyone else. I realize that the novel is a satire, but everything that was completely blown out of proportion got old quickly. Also, there were many unnecessarily graphic scenes, when those scenes could have been summed up more appropriately. I did like Shteyngart's characterization of Misha and his portrayal of the various settings. I felt like I got to know Misha and what he stands for a lot more as the novel progressed. Shteyngart's style of writing is very unique, but not enjoyable. It's mainly descriptions, one after another, which makes for a tiresome read. The novel seemed to lack color and emotions as well. I never really felt positively or negatively towards a character, character's emotions were all very distant from the reader. Overall, Absurdistan merits 2 1/2 out of 5 stars.