Simply put, Under Story is one of the best works of literary fiction I’ve read in a long time.
I know I’m loving a book when I start to convince myself that I should go to bed a little early so I can read longer that night. I did that for Under Story for several weeks. The author, Chloe Benjamin, had me hooked.
The remarkable thing is that the book isn’t entirely a page turner. There are no tricks or gimmicks to encourage you spin one chapter into the next. I just wanted to bask in every page, every character, every step of the journey.
Here’s the basic premise: A biologist takes a job as a dishwasher at a research station in Antarctica. There is a LOT that happens afterwards–no spoilers here–but even if the book was just a slice of life story about someone living in one of the most remote places on Earth, that would have been enough thanks to Benjamin’s writing. She is a master at her craft who makes the mundane interesting and weaves in just enough about each character (while always progressing the story) that I feel lucky to be included.
The story drops hints that something a little more speculative (but grounded in science) might happen, but I was not prepared for what it was or how it would play out.
I adore this book, and I highly, highly recommend it, especially if you have some time (it’s long–around 500 pages). Please let me know your thoughts if you do; spoilers are welcome in the comments.
Sounds good, I’ll put it in my queue.