In Aimee Pokwatka's The Parliament, a terrifying avian invasion transforms a quiet town library into a besieged fortress. When a massive flock of murderously inclined owls descends, Maddigan Purdy, a librarian, must protect her students and find a way to survive. Blending the thrilling suspense of The Birds with the whimsical charm of The Princess Bride, this novel explores themes of friendship, responsibility, and the raw power of nature. Trapped with dwindling supplies, Mad and her companions search for a solution, drawing inspiration from a cherished childhood book. Facing insurmountable odds and their own personal struggles, they must find the courage to overcome their predicament, before the owls' relentless siege claims them all.
Review The Parliament
Oh my goodness, The Parliament by Aimee Pokwatka was a wild ride! From the very first page, I was hooked. The premise – a library besieged by a murderously inclined flock of owls – is just delightfully absurd, and the execution is even better. I'm someone who, let's just say, isn't a huge fan of birds, and this book absolutely validated that feeling! The terror Mad, our protagonist, feels about these feathered fiends isn't just a plot device; it's a genuine, relatable fear that immediately drew me into her world. It's not just after the attack that the owls are terrifying; Mad's pre-existing aversion adds a layer of depth and realism that I loved.
The story within a story element – Mad reading "The Silent Queen" to her captive audience of students and townsfolk – was a stroke of genius. I usually shy away from this kind of nested narrative, but here, it worked perfectly. It wasn't just filler; it provided crucial insight into the characters' inner lives, mirroring and contrasting with their experiences in the besieged library. The parallels between the fictional queen's struggles and the real-life challenges faced by Mad and her companions were cleverly woven, enriching both narratives. The kids' different interpretations of "The Silent Queen" were particularly insightful, showcasing their unique perspectives and adding another layer of complexity to the story.
And let's talk about Mad. She's flawed, relatable, and utterly captivating. Her past trauma and her coping mechanisms – or lack thereof – felt authentic and made her all the more endearing. Witnessing her reluctantly embrace her role as a teacher and leader during this avian apocalypse was both heartwarming and compelling. She's not some superhero; she's a regular person thrust into extraordinary circumstances, and her struggle to navigate them made the story even more engaging.
The pacing was excellent, keeping me on the edge of my seat. The high stakes – survival, resourcefulness, cooperation – added a thrilling tension that kept me engrossed from beginning to end. I was constantly wondering what would happen next, who would survive, and how they would possibly escape their feathered prison. The descriptions of the owl attack are genuinely terrifying, and the sheer scale of the situation is incredibly well-conveyed.
While the book certainly has its darker moments, there's also an undercurrent of hope and resilience that shines through. The characters' courage and resourcefulness in the face of overwhelming odds are inspiring. It's a story about friendship, responsibility, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of unexpected adversity.
Honestly, I never wanted it to end. I connected with Mad and the other characters so deeply that the thought of leaving their world was bittersweet. This isn't just a fun, thrilling read; it's a story with heart, depth, and unforgettable characters. Yes, the owls are terrifying, but The Parliament is a truly captivating and rewarding read. I'm already planning a reread! Highly recommended, especially if you're looking for something unique, suspenseful, and emotionally resonant.
Information
- Dimensions: 5.45 x 0.95 x 8.2 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 368
- Publication date: 2024
- Publisher: Tor Books
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