Review of The Merge by Grace Walker
I have to confess: I shamelessly requested The Merge simply because of that stunning cover. I believe in the adage that "you can’t judge a book by its cover," but when the art is this striking and the typeface hints at something deeper, how can one resist? Upon diving in, I found myself drawn into a futuristic world that marries elements of TRIP by Aime Barrodale and THE MEMORY POLICE by Yōko Ogawa, both of which I admire for their unique takes on reality and perception.
At its core, The Merge explores complex themes of identity and societal value, particularly from the lens of ableism and mental illness. The story pivots around the premise that those deemed "ill" must merge with "healthy" counterparts, a concept that elicited a visceral reaction from me. This exploration can feel like a horror story wrapped in a dystopian facade—a reflection of the very real horrors faced by many in an ableist society. It’s a world where being vulnerable can be perceived as a burden, and Walker deftly captures the haunting reality of living in such a space.
One of the most poignant quotes that lingered with me is: “Of course you only get so cross with my mother because you love her so much. Of course you didn’t mean to hurt her…” This passage captures the uncomfortable complexity of relationships and the distortion of love, especially in circumstances tinged with illness and caretaking. It resonates deeply, especially for those of us navigating the intricacies of mental health.
However, I found myself tripping over Walker’s style at times. The heavy reliance on hyperbole felt like both a gift and a hurdle. For instance, when the character describes the frustration of seeing a blue sky without the ability to enjoy it, I found myself questioning the magnitude of that emotion. After all, there are elements in life that truly are "unbearable." That said, I noticed that while hyperbole reigned in the first half, it began to wane later in the book, allowing for a more grounded connection to the characters and narrative.
While the execution of the concept sometimes came with a tinge of ableist ideas, I ultimately felt that Walker was highlighting these issues rather than endorsing them. This is a book that deftly unravels the fabric of societal norms, making it a must-read for anyone interested in confronting uncomfortable truths.
One standout moment came when a character reflects, “You must never put off anything…find reasons to go through with your plans.” As someone with a mental illness, this sentiment struck a chord. It’s a reminder about the urgency of life, and also a caution against chasing desires at the expense of self-care.
In conclusion, I found The Merge both compelling and thought-provoking, and I was genuinely engaged by the second half of the book. If you’re a fan of surreal fiction or dystopian tales that delve into the societal dynamics of ableism, I highly encourage giving this a shot. It’s a read that lingers long after the final page, inviting you to reflect on the delicate interplay between health, identity, and the essence of being human.
Thank you to Grace Walker, Mariner Books, and NetGalley for an accessible digital ARC of THE MERGE. All opinions expressed are my own, and I look forward to seeing how this book resonates with you!
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