15 Jan Book Review: Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

I picked up Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens because it felt like one of those books everyone was talking about—Oprah book club vibes, but also a hint of murder mystery to keep things juicy. Plus, I’m a sucker for stories about outsiders, and the whole “Marsh Girl” thing sounded unique. I read it over the course of a week, mostly on my lunch breaks and a few late nights before bed, wondering how it was all going to tie together. It was the combination of the mystery and the idea of a girl growing up completely alone in nature that hooked me—I mean, how does someone even survive like that?

What’s it about?

The novel unfolds in the secluded marshes of Barkley Cove, a quiet town on the North Carolina coast. At its heart is Kya Clark, known to locals as the “Marsh Girl.” Abandoned by her family at a young age, Kya grows up in isolation, finding solace and education in the natural world around her. Her connection to the environment is profound; she becomes an expert on the flora and fauna of the marsh, documenting her observations through detailed illustrations and writings.

The narrative alternates between two timelines. The first begins in 1952, chronicling Kya’s childhood and her struggle for survival after being left alone. She learns to fish, trade mussels and smoked fish for supplies, and avoids the prying eyes of social services to evade being placed in foster care. Her only companions are the gulls and the wild creatures of the marsh, until she forms a tentative friendship with Tate Walker, a local boy who shares her love for nature. Tate teaches Kya to read and write, opening up new worlds through books and scientific knowledge. Their bond deepens into a tender romance, but Tate eventually leaves for college, breaking Kya’s heart and reinforcing her fear of abandonment.

The second timeline, set in 1969, revolves around the mysterious death of Chase Andrews, a popular local figure found dead beneath a fire tower. Suspicion quickly falls on Kya due to her reclusive nature and past connection with Chase. As the investigation unfolds, the townspeople’s prejudices against the “Marsh Girl” come to the forefront, and Kya finds herself on trial for murder. The courtroom drama reveals hidden facets of Kya’s relationships and the biases of the community.

Through flashbacks, readers learn that after Tate’s departure, Kya becomes involved with Chase Andrews, who entices her with promises of love and marriage. However, Chase’s intentions are far from honorable; he views Kya as a conquest and maintains a relationship with another woman, whom he eventually marries. When Kya discovers his betrayal, she ends the relationship, but Chase continues to harass her, leading to a confrontation that culminates in his death.

The novel intricately weaves themes of loneliness, resilience, and the human connection to nature. Kya’s profound bond with the marshland serves as both her sanctuary and her teacher, shaping her identity and worldview. Her story is a testament to survival against the odds and challenges societal prejudices, as she transforms from the abandoned “Marsh Girl” into a knowledgeable and self-reliant woman.

What This Chick Thinks

Diving into Where the Crawdads Sing was like being enveloped by the rich tapestry of the marshlands themselves. Delia Owens’ lyrical prose paints a vivid picture of the natural world, making it easy to lose oneself in Kya’s environment. The alternating timelines added depth to the narrative, gradually revealing the complexities of Kya’s life and the mystery surrounding Chase’s death.

However, I found certain aspects less compelling. Some character developments felt predictable, and the pacing occasionally lagged, particularly in the middle sections where the focus shifted heavily to the courtroom proceedings. Despite these minor critiques, the novel’s strengths lie in its atmospheric setting and the poignant exploration of isolation and resilience.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Where the Crawdads Sing is a beautifully written novel that immerses readers in the hauntingly beautiful marshlands of North Carolina. While it has its imperfections, the story of Kya’s survival and the unfolding mystery make it a worthwhile read. I’d rate it an 8 out of 10.

Try it if you like:

• The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd – A coming-of-age story set in the South, exploring themes of isolation, resilience, and the search for belonging.
• The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah – A tale of survival and resilience in the wilderness, with a strong female protagonist facing the challenges of isolation.
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee – A classic novel that delves into themes of prejudice, isolation, and the loss of innocence in a Southern town.