Where the Crawdads Sing

By Leah Maitland

Author: Delia Owens 

Other Works by/about the Author: Secrets of the Savanna, The Eye of the Elephant, Cry of the Kalahari (all co-written with Mark Owens)

Length of Book: 368 pages

Where the Crawdads Sing is a coming of age, murder mystery story based around a young girl named Kya Clark and her homeland, the marshlands of the North Carolina coast. The story begins with a prologue set in 1969, where the murder mystery aspect of the novel begins with the introduction of the now-dead victim and their whereabouts. Following, however, the first chapter jumps back to 1957, where we meet six year old Kya and begin the story of her troubled childhood. The chapters then begin to alternate, going back and forth from the  ́present day ́ murder investigation to the story of Kya and how she grew up. 

I had been recommended this book by multiple people, including peers and teachers, and my goodness it did not disappoint. With its vivid imagery throughout the story, it felt as though I was drawn into the world, seeing everything from Kya’s point of view. There are many complex characters as well, some much more likeable than others. The characters are all so multifaceted, that you truly cannot assume much of anyone’s character until the book is finished. The story also contains many twists and turns as the story progresses. With the introduction of new characters and scenarios, as well as the problems that Kya comes across that she must fight through, readers will remain entertained right up until the final page. 

As a general warning going into the story however, be aware that this book is an adult level read, and has slightly more serious content than many other popular young adult stories. While this won’t be an issue for everyone, take note that this story is a bit less lighthearted in places where the typical YA read may be. Other than that though, if you are looking for a great, well developed story with lovable (and despicable) characters to keep you occupied as we try to get through this pandemic, this is totally a must read.