Kaigon is a superb story of loss, triumph, and empowerment all wrapped within a well-devised and uniquely stitched blanket of fantasy.
I read this for the first time this summer and kind of sat there for the first six or so hours wondering why this book was so popular. Of course, I had high hopes going in so perhaps that jaded my initial perception when it didn’t instantly wow me. I still found it engaging enough to continue, however. I’m SO glad I did! The first big reveal happens maybe six hours in and it builds steadily from there into something worthy of all the praise and accolades it has earned! Perhaps the slow start makes the punch it packs all the more powerful. It sort of lulls you into a very false sense of meh, then steadily slaps you around with plot twist after plot twist with an unconventional pacing that leaves you ill-prepared for each. Be forewarned, this story will take an emotional toll but it leaves the listener with a sense of hope.
To mention all the themes present in this book would probably detract from the purpose of doing so. All I can say is it was an emotional roller coaster with several unexpected payoffs.
Misaki is everything I would ever want my three daughters to have as an example. Strong, selfless, loyal, yet willing to depart from convention to protect those she loves most.