Sanchez renders these feelings of isolation in rich, lyrical prose. The effect is a deep sense of interiority, though it sometimes comes at the expense of clarity ... The issue is that narrative inconsistencies and omissions throughout the book, including a significant revelation delivered later on, blunt the impact of Santiago’s epiphanies.
Dazzling ... Santiago’s sad and dreamy perspective immerses readers into his search for a sense of home, and the many raw and sensual sex scenes speak to his hunger for connection. This is a triumph.