This has been sitting on my “to read” shelves for some time – presumably it got there by recommendation or book review. I’m glad it did, though must admit that it is not an easy read.
I got through to page 87 then had to resort to going back to the beginning to try and remember the various characters and strands of stories. There is an overlaying storyline but the author’s method of moving the story along is by looking at the plot through the eyes of one of the principle characters. From my point of view, I was just getting into the character big-time, when whoops – it was time to switch to another point of view. Indeed some of the time and character switchings did make for a slightly confusing read. However, it is worth persevering, and could be one of those books that even deserves a second read in a few months.
The characters were convincing in themselves and quirky individually and collectively. Perhaps that is what makes me give it an 8 out of 10. Has anyone else read it?
I have to admit I haven’t read it Freda, but this ‘swapping perspectives’ type of story-telling annoys me so much that I usually wind up dumping the book in favour of a more straitforward approach.
Not fair to use your comments space for this I know, but I hope you’ll forgive me.
I have just today taken back to the library one of the best books I’ve read for a couple of years. It is called “A three-dog life”, and is by Abigail Thomas.
A true story of a woman’s life after an accident which left her husband brain-damaged.
Their very touching and her heart-warming method of coping makes it unique.
Enjoyed your review, but I have a few of your earlier recommendations yet to read. I think I will pass on this one til I finish some others on my wish list. I’m not quite ready for a difficult read these days.
Thanks for the alternative recommendation Ray – sounds like my kind of book, so I am putting it on the list!
Have enjoyed other books of his so happy to add this to my ‘to read’ list. Thanks.
NO, I haven’t read the book. Sounds like one of those Russian novels where the story is told from many points of view and the characters all have many different names. The postmodern deconstructed story lines can be confusing can’t they. Dianne
I read his “Notes from an Exhibition” and I loved it. I can’t say that I found it particularly erratic or unreadable either, maybe he is doing something different in this one? Anyway, I would love to read it – wish I was close enough to pop over and do a swap:)
Maybe it is just my poor concentration, Suem, once I got into the book it kind of galloped away with me as any good read does.