In short, I loved this book and, though my favorite book on the shortlist was In a Strange Room, I was thrilled when it was announced as the winner last night. I began it warily the day the shortlist was announced. Well, any wariness wore off quickly. The first few pages were incredibly funny to me. Jacobson certainly connected with me and, with superb stlye, made me laugh and shudder throughout.
So it is funny and sad as it examines loss and grief, but it is also very timely. Its looks at religious identity in modern society are important, and Jacobson has a flury of perspectives from which he presents this material.
For my complete review, please click here.
I notice I have not been keeping up with my posting here. Hopefully in the next few weeks I can post brief summaries for a few more 2010 books and a few of the other Booker books I've read in the last couple of years since I became negligent here.
ReplyDeleteNice to see your review. I knew nothing about the author or the book until the prize was announced. Now, I know I'll be reading this one.
ReplyDeleteMalcolm
Thanks for posting this, Trevor, and I do hope you'll be back to post more reviews. They are always thoughtful and well-written.
ReplyDeleteHope one day I get access to this book.
ReplyDelete