Honestly, I am not really sure what I read. Marigold and Rose by Louise Gluck is not in my usual wheelhouse. First it is an adult book, not a kids book and second, it is a mixture of unusual prose poetry and a regular novel. Go ahead and call me unsophisticated if you wish. I’m good with that. Not every book is meant for everyone and not everyone is meant for every book.
I would say that the book has two main layers to it. The first is the surface and you’re reading about life, growing old, beauty, knowledge, intelligence, life philosophies and death all in a voice that is not what we’re used to: twin girls who are not even a year old yet. The wisdom of the ages is in their minds, but is not expressed out loud. However, the girls have a way of communicating with each other. Maybe. I was never sure if they could “talk” to each other, or it was just the individual answering themself. The poetic formula of the style of writing gives it a romantic feeling, but is also straight forward.
The second layer is that it is so “lofty” that I have a feeling people will be embarrassed to say they “don’t get it” and say it is amazing just not to be trolled by saying it is “true literature” and something amazingly wonderful! This author has a way with words, but not one that is going to be with all readers. You see, our flower sisters are not the only flowers of our story. There are the flowers of the garden, the mother and father symbols and the idea of life and death blooming and death/loss. There are also images of how each girl takes after a parent, is a parents favorite, yet has a connection to both of the parents.
I recommend reading and finding out where you stand on the subject/story and execution of things. Do not trust me, another critic, a friend, or even the author’s reputation. We leave this family after the end of the first birthday party with a message. But that I leave up to you. I will say this is a 2.5-3 and therefore a nice, strong “average” read for me. I did not hate or love it, but I appreciate it.