Kelly Barnhill crafts memorable, nuanced characters, particularly the protagonist and her complex relationship with her mother and the titular crane husband. The secondary characters, while fewer in number, are distinct and additive to the story’s tension. The protagonist’s internal struggle is compelling, and her personality is well-defined. I felt that some minor characters could have been more fleshed out to add depth to the story’s world, but overall, the cast is strong and engaging.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10

The book excels in creating a vivid, immersive atmosphere. The setting—a blend of magical realism and dark fairy tale—is palpable and haunting. I could vividly picture the bleak, suffocating environment and feel the foreboding tension surrounding the crane. The scenes have an emotional energy that is both oppressive and captivating, adding to the story’s eerie tone.

Barnhill’s prose is exquisite, lyrical, and evocative. It flows effortlessly, making even the darkest moments beautiful in their own way. The balance between dialogue and narration is masterful, and her unique style elevates the storytelling. This book serves as a testament to her literary prowess, and I would eagerly pick up more of her work, regardless of genre.

The plot is both simple and profound, drawing heavily on folklore but imbuing it with modern, personal stakes. The pacing is effective, though I felt that some sections were a bit rushed compared to others. The narrative’s surprises are impactful and align well with the overarching themes. While some elements remain deliberately ambiguous, I found the overall plot satisfying and thought-provoking.

From the opening pages, the story gripped me and refused to let go. The dark, suspenseful tone and enigmatic characters kept me turning pages. While there were moments where the story slowed, my intrigue remained high throughout, driven by a desire to understand the crane’s presence and the family dynamics.

The relationships, particularly between the protagonist, her mother, and the crane, are the emotional core of the story and are portrayed with depth and authenticity. The world-building, while minimalistic, is sufficient for the magical realism framework. I wanted more explicit explanations of the crane’s motives and the rules of the world, but the ambiguity serves the story’s fairy tale-like quality.

This is a deeply engrossing and emotionally resonant book. The combination of its haunting prose, rich atmosphere, and poignant themes ensured a consistently enjoyable experience for me. I found it unforgettable and thought-provoking from start to finish.