Zebra Forest was a multi-faceted book with deep and interesting characters.  The story engages the reader with its charm, and addresses several complicated topics.  Its charm is derived mainly from the brother-sister relationship that exists between the protagonist and her sibling, as well as the innocence the two share before the main events of the novel.  The novels many layers come from the levels of awareness and intelligence that exist between the characters, and how these differing perspectives line-up in the plot and how the author uses these different perspectives to explore the novel’s family and forgiveness themes.  However, I felt that the overall point of the novel may have gone over my head, as the author’s style tended to address themes and actions indirectly.  While this didn’t work for me, readers who prefer to slowly think out a novel and pick it apart will definitely enjoy this novel.  Otherwise, Zebra Forest is an enjoyable read for strong readers.

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language:  None

Violence/Gore: One threat is issued; there are 2 brief reports of violence and one extended, but mild retelling of a murder; one scene where a character is hurt.

Sex/Nudity: None

Mature Subject Matter:

Murder, family trust.

Alcohol / Drug Use:

Characters are reported to have been at a bar drinking.