Author: Jeff Zentner
Genre: Young adult, contemporary
Publisher: Crown Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: March 8, 2016
384 pages, hardcover
Check out the full synopsis on Goodreads.
NOTE: I was provided with an ARC of this book from the author because he’s a wonderful human being.
Do you ever read a book so good that when you turn the last page, you just clutch it to your chest and hold it for a bit? And how often do you realize, as you hold the book, that you’ve just read something that has now firmly positioned itself on your favorites shelf? That’s The Serpent King for me.
I haven’t had this much of an emotional reaction to a book in a long time. I mean, I full-on sobbed at one point. I literally had to get up from the table (I was on my lunch break at work) and LEAVE the building to get some fresh air. The Serpent King is one that will stick with you for a long time, and it’s been months since I read it and I still can’t get it out of my head. It’s beautiful, heartbreaking, real (SO real), and absolutely lovely.
I don’t want to go into the specifics of the plot because I think you should just read it, but I do want to mention the characters. I think it’s the mark of a great author when the characters they create feel like they could walk out of the book and shake your hand. I could relate to all three of the main characters – Lydia, Dill, and Travis – in different ways. Jeff has perfectly captured Lydia’s desire to move, to get out into the world, and leave everything she’s ever known. Travis’ passion and love of his favorite book series will resonate with all of us. And with Dill? What it means to be human.
The bottom line: Read this book to meet characters that feel like real people. Read this book because we’ve all fought for the hope of a better life. Read this book to feel – alive, human, hopeful, heartbroken. Read this book because you’re human.
I remember reading your review when it came out and thinking that I probably wouldn’t like The Serpent King as much as you did. I read it this past weekend, and while it didn’t have me in tears, it is my early favorite for debut novel of 2016.
YESSSS! This makes me so happy! ❤
Pingback: Top Ten Tuesday: Last 4 and 5 Star Reads | Caught Read Handed
Pingback: The Serpent King | Book Playlist | Caught Read Handed
I don’t know why, but I had not heard much about this book before. But now I keep seeing great reviews all over the place. I think I need to add this one to my TBR!
YES YOU DOOOOO!
I am a human so I shall read this book! It also doesn’t hurt that it moved you so much, also very convincing! 😀 Added to my TBR pile.
YES! My job here is done. 🙂
I am seriously so glad to have been on your ARC tour for this book because it completely blew me away. I haven’t connected with characters like this in so long. I, too, will be adding this to my favorites shelf.
This makes me so so happy, Maren! I’m so glad you signed up to participate!
Just started reading this last night, and I’m in love with it so far! The characters are so likable…I think Travis is my favorite.
This makes me so happy! Keep me updated on what you think!
I just finished it and I don’t remember the last time I cried so hard. This book messed with my emotions but IT WAS SO GOOD.
THIS. Exactly.