Hi all!

Welcome back to The Ultimate Reading Challenge! I outlined in 2022 how the new series will work here, so check that out before progressing further. For my 22nd challenge, the task was to attend an online/in-person author event. Unfortunately, there was nothing available anywhere, so I decided to watch an interview with the author on YouTube instead. Today I am sharing my thoughts on Whalefall by Daniel Krause, plus my prize for completing the prompt. Without further ado, let’s get into it!

Plot: ‘Whalefall’ by Daniel Kraus:

It tells the story of Jay Gardiner, a troubled young man, burdened by guilt after the death of his estranged father. Jay hopes to redeem himself by diving to recover his father’s remains in the ocean off the California coast; instead, he is swallowed whole by a whale.

Review: ‘Whalefall’ by Daniel Kraus:

Wow! This is definitely one of my favourite reads of the year. It was so deep (metaphorically and literally), well-researched and written. I felt every moment of tension, as though I too, was trapped inside the whale. This is a story of grief, trauma and the desire to feel whole again. I could relate to the protagonist’s toxic relationship with his late father. This is so much more than just a claustrophobic horror story. You will learn a lot and feel inspired by the end. 

Interview: ‘Whalefall’ by Daniel Kraus:

I’m so glad I watched the interview. It really made me respect Daniel as an author after listening to him speak. He researched whales for three months before putting words on paper. Kraus has worked with film legends such as: George Romero and Guillermo del Toro on The Shape of Water. 

Prize For Completing The Challenge:

My prize for completing the prompt was reading-themed washi tape. Unfortunately, the images are very hard to make out. I wish they were clearer. I’m probably not going to use it. 

Thank you so much for reading! I will see you next month for a new bookish challenge!

Peace & Love xoxo