Reading this book felt like going to lunch with your slightly kooky great aunt who has all sorts of stories about what it was like growing up in the city back in the day. Magic the tortoise is so charming and has such a big heart.

I am so impressed at how well Coulter was able to nail the voice of a giant tortoise. Magic is both tender-hearted, and superior; curious and accepting of her life. Learning about the world through Magic's eyes was a brilliant way to examine all the beautiful and ugly parts of human culture.

The main reason I took a half star off is because I was not a fan of the ending. After we catch up to modern day, we rush into the future which felt like a confusing muddle of disconnected events - as if the Coulter couldn't quite commit to vision of what the future holds.

The Tortoise's Tale is one of the most profound books I have ever read, and one that will stay with me for the rest of my life. It follows the lives of various residents of a large estate through the eyes of a captivating giant tortoise. Coulter manages to cover serious topic after serious topic with grace and subtlety as everything is viewed through our tortoise's eyes. Through this story we see the absolute highs and devastating lows of humanity.

This book allows you to think for yourself, which is a wonderful departure from the overexplaining we are seeing in many modern novels. It demands your attention in the best way and is a testament to Coulter's ability to craft her story.

For possibly the first time ever, I have zero notes. I'm in love with this book and I beg everyone to please pick it up when it releases in November.

Thank you to Simon & Shuster and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.