Is 'The Art Of Not Breathing' Worth Reading?

2026-01-05 15:27:42
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3 Answers

Simone
Simone
Book Clue Finder Nurse
I picked up 'The Art of Not Breathing' on a whim, drawn by its haunting cover and the promise of a story about grief and underwater mysteries. The book follows Elsie, a girl grappling with the drowning of her twin brother, and her obsession with freediving as a way to reconnect with him. What struck me most was how raw and visceral the writing felt—every dive, every memory, every moment of tension was so vivid it almost left me breathless. The author doesn’t shy away from the messy, painful parts of loss, and that honesty made it impossible to put down.

That said, it’s not a light read. The pacing can be slow, and the emotional weight might overwhelm some readers. But if you’re into stories that dig deep into family dynamics, secrets, and the way trauma shapes us, this one’s worth diving into. I finished it weeks ago, and certain scenes still pop into my head at random moments—that’s how you know it left a mark.
2026-01-07 11:02:01
8
Omar
Omar
Plot Explainer Assistant
I’ll be real: 'The Art of Not Breathing' wrecked me in the best way. It’s one of those books that lingers, like saltwater on your skin after a swim. Elsie’s story is equal parts heartbreaking and fascinating—her grief, her reckless dives, the way she pieces together her brother’s last moments. The setting, this bleak Scottish coastal town, adds so much atmosphere. It’s cold, lonely, and perfect for the story.

What really got me was how the author captures that teenage feeling of being stuck between childhood and adulthood, desperate for answers but terrified of what they might be. It’s a slow burn, but the emotional punches land hard. If you’re up for something heavy but beautifully written, give it a shot. Just keep tissues handy.
2026-01-07 18:47:45
4
Elijah
Elijah
Bookworm Photographer
A friend loaned me their copy of 'The Art of Not Breathing,' insisting I’d love it, and wow, were they right. The way it blends coming-of-age struggles with a tinge of supernatural mystery is just chef’s kiss. Elsie’s voice is so distinct—angry, confused, and achingly real. Her journey into freediving becomes this metaphor for confronting the past, and the underwater scenes are described with such eerie beauty. I’ve never even tried diving, but after reading, I kinda wanted to.

It’s not perfect, though. Some secondary characters felt underdeveloped, and the middle drags a bit. But the payoff? Absolutely worth it. The last few chapters had me glued to the page, heart in my throat. If you enjoy books like 'We Were Liars' or 'The Astonishing Color of After,' this’ll hit the same bittersweet spot.
2026-01-11 10:15:48
5
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