After a slow start I really found myself enjoying the witty
(though very dry) humor in this book.
Amy grows on you as you discover more of her character and
background. I especially enjoyed the
names of the chapters, trying to see if I could find the relationship as I
read. Another part I liked was the “topics”
Amy lists as story ideas/titles. They give another clue to Amy’s persona. Amy’s students are delightful, clearly and
carefully drawn.
While the entire book is a put down of pretentious authors,
it is also the story of a very human woman who has great sorrows to surmount.
As is true with all good humor, there is also tragedy to provide contrast. Willett deals well with both. (spoiler alert –
Maxine’s recovery is the one deviation from realistic outcomes in an otherwise well-paced
and plotted tale.)
Anyone who enjoys a “good read” and, equally, a “bad read,” will
enjoy this writer’s delight. If you are a
potential novelist, there is much food for thought.
Book groups will have a field day with a variety of topics –
truth vs fiction, honest criticism, how you see yourself as opposed to how
others see you, marriage of convenience, dealing with rude/stupid/ignorant
people (and being rude/stupid/ignorant yourself), personal growth and change,
phobias and others.
No comments:
Post a Comment