BOOK REVIEW: Below Torrential Hill by Jonathan Koven

BELOW TORRENTIAL HILL is a book as bizarre as it is charming and as thoughtful as it is strange. This poetic coming-of-age tale blends genres, twists tropes, and invites readers on a fascinating and heartfelt journey. I can’t recommend it enough.

I’ve adored Jonathan Koven’s work since I first heard him read at an open mic last year. His poetry absolutely sings, and he truly brings that lyrical quality to his prose. This novella often reads like free verse, veering into beautifully ethereal, almost stream-of-consciousness descriptions of Torrential Hill and the people within it, bringing a magical quality to what could be a mundane little town.

This book uses elements of fantasy and magical realism to weave a story of family, of love, of self-reflection, and of personal growth. It’s feels like classic literature built for the modern age, echoing Salinger with hints of Chbosky and a surrealist edge that is fully and uniquely Koven.

I can already tell that this is a book I’ll be returning to. It’s a whole lot in a small package, and I’m excited to parse through it again with a keener eye. Huge, huge thank you to Jonathan for sending over a copy in exchange for an honest review! I can honestly say that this little novella is an instant favorite.

TW for depictions and discussions of alcoholism, underage drinking, and allusions to domestic abuse.

★★★★☆