Ann-Helén Laestadius delivers yet another deeply moving and powerful novel with Punished.

The first 20% was a bit disorienting as I familiarized myself with the characters and their relationships, but once I got my bearings, it became much easier to follow. Laestadius skillfully overlaps their experiences, creating a tapestry of interconnected lives.

This book reminded me of Five Little Indians by Michelle Good, another excellent read. Both novels explore the lingering impacts of systemic oppression and the resilience of those who endure it.

The first half of Punished moves more slowly, laying the groundwork by detailing the characters’ younger years at the Nomad school and their adult lives in the 1980s. Once the former headmaster of the school reappears in town, the pace intensifies, and the story gains momentum. Laestadius does an exceptional job capturing the characters’ conflicting emotions—physical revulsion and painful memories resurfacing, tied to trauma their younger selves.

Marge’s storyline resonated with me deeply, especially as an adoptee. Her reflections on her time at the Nomad school—where she was forced to learn a new language, take on a new name, and adapt to new customs—parallel her daughter’s experience as a Colombian adoptee. This realization compels Marge to reconsider her past and strive to be the best mother she can for her daughter, adding emotional depth to the narrative.

The diversity of characters and their distinct personalities was another highlight. Each character’s individuality shines through, yet the shared impact of their time at the school binds them together in ways that feel authentic and poignant.

Overall, Punished is another incredible work by Laestadius—both deeply moving and thought-provoking. I’m grateful to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the ARC, which introduced me to a new favourite author. I highly recommend this novel to anyone looking for a powerful exploration of identity, resilience, and the lasting effects of systemic injustice.