Book Review: Marigold and Rose

Book Name: Marigold and Rose
Author: Louise Glück

Publication: Aleph Book Company

Genre: Fiction

Marigold and Rose by Louise Glück is a fiction novella featuring twin sisters Marigold and Rose, as the title says. A cute and obsession-worthy work that will fill readers with delight and leave them with a lot of thoughts.

Marigold and Rose are born, and their parents play a key role in their growth. The story starts from their birth until they turn one, and in between, how their behavior and instincts play a different role throughout will make readers giggle and feel shocked at times. How both the sisters are way different makes them the perfect twins.

The characters are Marigold, Rose, and their parents, who have been talked about in this little book of fiction. Marigold, an annual being, is in love with books and also wants to write a book, which eventually she writes in her dream. But the sad part is that Marigold keeps questioning her life and her existence. On the other hand, readers will meet Rose, who is perennial and so confident about her existence, and ignorant of books. Eventually, the twin sisters are different in behavior, but they are always there for each other. While Marigold is messy, Rose is an epitome of perfection. For example, Rose can drink out of a cup smoothly, while Marigold spills while drinking. There are a few nuggets of comparison between the two, but at the end, both have their unique traits and personalities without challenging each other.

The writing style is lyrical, which shows that the author is an acclaimed poet. While reading this book, readers would want to highlight each line in the book, where they will get to understand how Marigold and Rose are not real human beings but the flowers that we often see around us, where one is annual and the other is perennial. 

“Marigold was writing a book. That she couldn’t read was an impediment. Nevertheless, the book was forming in her head. The words would come later. The book had people in it but it also had animals. All books, Marigold felt, should have animals; people were not enough.” 

It is from the first page of the book, and I am sure, readers would sit with this thought and think about it, and wait to read this book slowly to inhale the true essence of it.  Readers would enjoy this quick read and want more of it. Because the story is so heartwarming and cozy, it will finish in one sitting but leave an impression on the readers. And, of course, they will not see the two flowers, Rose and Marigold, in the same way ever again, and this book will redefine the essence of those flowers for them.

I would highly recommend this book for readers looking for a quick and cozy read. And, of course, if you are someone in a reading slump, it’s the perfect pick that will not only turn out to be a meaningful read but will make you giggle, laugh, and feel a little too much for Marigold in the story and in the real world.

Buy From Here: Marigold and Rose