HELP

It's totally understandable to feel a bit thrown off by the writing style in 'Tress of the Emerald Sea' by Brandon Sanderson. I've heard similar feedback from other readers, and honestly, it's a departure from what many might expect, even from Sanderson himself! When I first saw the beautiful cover with the silhouette of a woman holding a cup against that large yellow moon and green background, I anticipated a certain kind of fantasy adventure. And while it delivers adventure, the narrative voice is definitely a unique beast. That feeling of the writer narrating a movie instead of a traditional book? I totally get that. It’s because the narrator, Hoid, is such a distinct character within the story, directly addressing the audience. This meta-narrative style is a big part of what makes it special for some, but it can absolutely feel a bit jarring if you're used to a more immersive, unseen narrator. It constantly breaks the fourth wall, reminding you that this is a story being told, almost like a bard recounting a tale. It's a method that works wonders for some, adding whimsy and a sense of being personally addressed, while for others, it can create a distance from the characters and the immediate action. Sanderson often plays with narrative structures, but 'Tress' really leans into a fairytale-like, almost parable storytelling. It’s part of his 'Secret Projects,' and these were written as gifts to his readers, allowing him to experiment a bit more outside his main Cosmere sagas like Stormlight Archive or Mistborn. For some, this experimental nature is a breath of fresh air; for others, it might feel a little too whimsical or distant, especially if they came to the book expecting the epic scope and standard narrative style of his other works. So, should you finish it? That's the million-dollar question for many books! If you're finding yourself truly unable to connect, it's okay to put a book down. Reading should be enjoyable. However, many readers who push through the initial awkwardness find a deep appreciation for the story's charm, the unique world-building, and the underlying Cosmere connections (if you're into that!). The plot does pick up, and the narrative voice often becomes more endearing as you get used to Hoid's personality and wit. It’s a book that’s often described as a 'hug in a book,' once you settle into its rhythm. My advice would be to try a few more chapters. Sometimes, it just takes a bit longer to acclimate to a new narrative voice. You could also try listening to the audiobook – a good narrator can sometimes make a challenging writing style much more accessible, especially with a character like Hoid. Or, if you're really struggling, perhaps take a break and come back to it. Sometimes stepping away gives you fresh eyes (or ears!). But don't feel pressured. There are so many amazing books out there, and finding joy in reading is the main goal. The message on the cover 'I'm struggling to get into this book' perfectly captures the dilemma many face, so you're definitely not alone in this experience!