Fly your book-nerd flag high! Get your book-nerd T-Shirts and more here!

Never Let Me Go
By: Kazuo Ishiguro
My Rating: FIVE out of FIVE Emotional Stars
Best For: 18 and up

Never Let Me Go: A Content Aware Book Review

Kazuo Ishiguro’s Never Let Me Go is a haunting and unforgettable novel that expertly blends elements of dystopian fiction, coming-of-age narrative, and mystery. The story unfolds with a quiet intensity, drawing you into a world that is both familiar and deeply unsettling.

What’s it about?

Imagine a seemingly idyllic boarding school in the English countryside, a place called Hailsham, where children grow up in a sheltered and protected environment. This is where we meet Kathy, our narrator, who guides us through her memories of childhood and adolescence. As Kathy recounts her experiences at Hailsham, a creeping sense of mystery and unease slowly unfolds. There are hints of something different, something unspoken, about the students and their purpose in the world.

Ishiguro expertly cultivates a sense of mounting dread as Kathy and her friends, Ruth and Tommy, grapple with their identities and their place in a society that seems to hold them at arm’s length. The novel slowly reveals clues, raising questions about the true nature of Hailsham and the fate that awaits its students. The narrative builds towards a pivotal revelation that reframes the entire story, forcing the reader to reconsider everything they thought they knew.

What did I love?

The masterful storytelling: Ishiguro’s prose is both lyrical and precise, capturing the nuances of Kathy’s voice and the subtle shifts in her emotional landscape. He expertly cultivates a sense of mounting dread as the story unfolds.
The complex characters: Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy are deeply flawed yet utterly relatable characters. Their relationships are fraught with complexities and contradictions, mirroring the challenges of real-life friendships and love.
The thought-provoking themes: Never Let Me Go skillfully explores profound questions about identity, purpose, and the meaning of life. It challenges us to consider what it means to be human in a world where societal norms and expectations can be both comforting and confining.
The shocking twist: The novel’s central twist is both unexpected and deeply impactful. It reframes the entire story, adding layers of depth and meaning that will leave you reeling.
The atmospheric setting: Ishiguro brilliantly creates a palpable sense of place, with Hailsham serving as both a sanctuary and a source of unease. The descriptions of the school and its surroundings evoke a sense of isolation and mystery, contributing to the novel’s overall atmosphere of suspense.

What didn’t I love?

The slow pacing: The novel’s deliberate pace may not appeal to readers looking for a fast-paced, action-packed story.
The ambiguous ending: The ending leaves some questions unanswered, which may frustrate some readers.

Sensitive Content

Sexual content: There are some sexually suggestive scenes and references to sexual activity.
Strong language: There is some occasional use of strong language.

Should you read it?

Well duh. If you’re a fan of literary fiction that explores complex themes and challenges your perceptions, then Never Let Me Go is an absolute must-read. It’s a haunting and unforgettable novel that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page. However, if you’re looking for a light and easy read, this might not be the book for you. While the novel’s deliberate pace and open-ended conclusion may not appeal to all readers, those who appreciate thought-provoking stories with a lingering emotional impact will find this book to be a truly rewarding experience.

Never Let Me Go is a powerful and moving novel that explores the complexities of human existence in a world where identity and purpose are constantly questioned. Ishiguro’s storytelling, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes make this a truly unforgettable read. While the slow pacing and ambiguous ending may not appeal to all readers, those who appreciate literary fiction that challenges their perceptions will find this book to be a rewarding experience. So, grab a copy, dive into the world of Hailsham, and prepare to be moved by Kathy’s story. Let me know what you think in the comments below!

This Dad says Never Let Me Go is best for 18 and up.

Happy Reading!