Review of "Endling" by Maria Reva: A Whirlwind of Heart and Humor in Ukraine
From the moment I stumbled upon Maria Reva’s "Endling," I felt a pull towards its unconventional premise—a snail scientist navigating a world on the brink of war. It seemed almost whimsical at first glance, but as I delved deeper, I found a startlingly poignant exploration of resilience, humor, and the complexities of human nature against the backdrop of the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Longlisted for the Booker Prize 2025, "Endling" turns out to be one of the most compelling reads of the year, blending dark themes with a vibrant tapestry of quirky characters.
At the heart of the novel, we meet Yeva, a snail scientist with a heart for endangered species, and an equally intriguing set of insecurities and aspirations. Reva masterfully weaves humor into Yeva’s chronicles, from her bureaucratic battles over grant requests to her experiences with love and sexuality. The chapters dance between Yeva and other characters like Nastia and Sol, who, in their own chaotic lives at a marriage company, illustrate the absurdity and desperation of human connection amid war. One quote that lingered with me was, “I need to keep fact and fiction straight, but they keep blurring together”—an apt reflection of life’s complexities, especially during tumultuous times.
Reva doesn’t shy away from exploring severe themes such as ecological preservation and the moral grey areas of the dating industry, drawing parallels that are both shocking and thought-provoking. The narrative indicates how war doesn’t just destroy but also compels individuals to find unity and resilience in the face of absurdity. The late invasion’s implications are starkly visible here, showing how the specter of conflict can punctuate even the most mundane aspects of life.
What stood out remarkably for me was Reva’s writing style—sharp, experimental, and infused with irony that often feels like a breath of fresh air. She adeptly balances humor with harrowing truths, creating a narrative that allows readers to both laugh and reflect deeply. One moment, a touching reflection on identity; the next, a sardonic commentary on societal expectations. The way she introduced her characters’ arcs felt seamless, enriching the story with both personal struggles and broader cultural critiques.
Memorable lines like “Culture is the thinnest layer of moss on the body of human existence,” linger in my mind, swirling together themes of existence, representation, and personal loss. It’s as though Reva gives a voice to the unexamined, a genius touch that drives home the message that amidst chaos, culture and identity can feel painfully vulnerable and yet resilient.
Ultimately, I believe "Endling" will resonate with a wide audience. Its blend of humor, ecological insights, deep reflections on female rage, and the absurdity of societal norms make it relevant for both literary enthusiasts and those interested in contemporary issues. For anyone seeking a novel that doesn’t just regurgitate the narratives of war but challenges them with humor and insight, this book is a must-read.
In closing, Maria Reva’s "Endling" is not merely a war novel; it’s a vibrant and heart-wrenching portrayal of resilience amidst despair. It was an engaging reading experience for me—one that reminded me of the importance of laughter and connection in the darkest times. Simply put, let’s hope for no more wars, but rather a few more novels like this one.
Rating: 5.0/5
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