A review by al_sharnaqi
The Vegetarian by Han Kang

challenging dark emotional mysterious sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated

4.75

"The Vegetarian" is a novel that challenges and disturbs. It forced me to confront uncomfortable truths about how society treats nonconformity and mental illness. The story’s ambiguity and unresolved questions left me pondering long after finishing the book. While this might frustrate readers who prefer clear resolutions, I found it compelling and true to the complexity of real-life issues.One of the most striking aspects of the novel is its ability to evoke empathy for a character who is largely silent and passive. Yeong-hye’s quiet resistance and ultimate breakdown are portrayed with such sensitivity that it becomes impossible not to feel for her plight.Overall, "The Vegetarian" is a powerful exploration of autonomy, rebellion, and the human psyche. It’s a novel that requires emotional investment and an openness to its unsettling narrative, but the reward is a profound and thought-provoking reading experience.