"Island of the Doomed" was more than I expected. Although most reviews were positive, some were mixed. Some reviews suggest that fear is the basic theme. I certainly agree that fear is a pervasive presence in the novel. I was reminded of the director David Lynch in Dagerman's ability to create a mood. But the mood is more than fear.

Dagerman's characters face numerous existential crisis: hopelessness, guilt, paranoia, meaninglessness and yes, fear. The characters share their inner struggles in powerful and convincing ways. Are these struggles personal or universal? Likely both.

Some of the novel's appeal for me is undoubtedly personal. I can connect with the emotional content. I accept that many readers may find the work tedious and be put off by the unyielding bleakness of its message. Yet, for me at least, the feelings are far too real. ( )