When Where the Crawdads Sing hit theaters this summer, I, like many others, found myself enchanted with this story set in the middle of the marshes of North Carolina. While I enjoyed the movie, I wanted to read the book, since I had heard that it was even better. The book exceeded my expectations, as the movie fantastically spins this tale, but the book portrays the story in even more delightful detail. This book is full of deep emotions, and it can be dark at times, containing descriptions of murder, abuse, and sexual assault, so it is not for everyone. However, if you’re in the mood for an intriguing, touching, bittersweet read, then this is the book for you.

Where the Crawdads Sing is the story of Catherine “Kya” Clark. The book centers on her life and her supposed involvement in the death of Chase Andrews. Abandoned by her entire family, Kya grows up basically alone, known by the local people as “the Marsh Girl.” Only a few people dare to reach out to her, until the body of Chase Andrews is found in the marsh. Suspicion swirls around Kya, resulting in her arrest and trial, leaving the reader to question if Kya is responsible for Chase’s death. The plot shifts from Kya’s past to the present, giving the reader an interesting perspective, as they learn the facts along with the detectives and learn about Kya’s life in flashbacks.

This book is set in the fictional Barkley’s Cove, North Carolina, and much of the action takes place in the marshes. The setting is one of the things that makes this book stand out, as it is the perfect background for this dark, romantic mystery. For anyone who loves the North Carolina coast, the vivid, detailed descriptions of the shore and the nearby town awaken feelings of nostalgia.

The marsh itself could be considered a character, as it shapes Kya’s life; it’s the only constant that Kya has ever known. She learns almost everything she knows from the marsh, and she compares her relationships to the swans and fireflies that live in the marsh. In essence, the marsh becomes Kya’s defining personality trait. Like the marshes, Kya’s life is isolated and unknown, yet lush and full of life.

The setting also shows some of the main themes of the story, particularly isolation and discrimination. Kya spends her life separated from the rest of the world, and the town collectively judges Kya, shutting her out and labeling her as an outsider before she even tries to be accepted. Rather than risk the pain of being ostracized and being alone in a crowded room, Kya chooses to live alone with the marsh as her best friend. This feeling of loneliness is all too familiar for many readers, including myself. The picture of Kya’s isolation is touching, relatable, and beautiful, and it is one of the highlights of the book.

Not only does Where the Crawdads Sing convey the heartbreak of isolation, but it also shows the heartbreak of growing up, falling in love, and being betrayed. We see Kya grow from a scared, resilient child into a brave, resourceful woman, and our hearts break with her as she is broken throughout the years. The mystery of who killed Chase Andrews is compelling, but the true magic of this story lies in the deep themes and bittersweet relatability. Where the Crawdads Sing is more than just a mystery; it’s also a perfect mixture of coming-of age and romance.