Book Review: The Forest Brims Over by Maru Ayase

March 8, 2024

What a fever dream this book was.

Each chapter was from a different persons point of view and gave more insight to what the story was all about - this author and his wife. I am not sure I can even really describe this book, but it was strange and beautiful and heartbreaking and magical.

You kind of grow to hate all of the characters, while still sympathizing with them and trying to understand their outlook. The main subject is really femininity and how it relates to masculinity, morals and work.

The back of the book says “ as fantasy and reality bleed together, The Forest Brims Over challenges unconscious gender biases and explored the boundaries between art and exploitation- muse abuse - in the literary world.”

Overall, I think I would suggest this book, but do know that it is strange and winding.