I've previously only read one other novel by Penelope Lively, and loved it. I had asked Lady M to buy a few Agatha Christie paperbacks from Oxfam, but she came back with this. Moon Tiger.
I do enjoy Lively's style of writing. It's a cross between stream of consciousness and the clipped, dark, descriptive writing of Dylan Thomas. Intelligent and provocative.
The narrative in this one is a bit slow. It follows the lives of a woman, her mother, her brother, and various family friends and relations. I would have preferred a more interesting story-line, however, the writing is so meticulous that I still enjoyed reading it.
The book discusses the inevitability of life and death; the past and the future. I finished it feeling slightly depressed.
Next book; Agatha Christie. Poirot is on the case at Pollensa Bay, and elsewhere, in a book of short stories. A very different kettle of fish! Of the six or so short stories, I only found three to be worthy of her reputation.
I really liked the sound of this novel at first. Then, hearing the discussion of the inevitability of life and death and you feeling a bit depressed put me off !!! In my situation now, I only look for things that amuse me and make me laugh ..... Agatha Christie I can cope with 🤣 XXXX
ReplyDeleteThat's why I asked Lady M to buy a few AC's. I really don't want to be feeling depressed when I finish a book.
DeleteMoon Tiger? No. Please do not moon tiger! I once saw a Wigan RLFC fan mooning from the back of a coach on the M1 and it was not a pretty sight. Sheffield Eagles had just beaten them in the Rugby League Challenge Cup Final. It was 1998.
ReplyDeleteIs 'mooning' still in fashion? Luckily I have yet to witness the practice.
DeleteEnjoy the reading.
ReplyDeleteI'm bookless again for the moment. Back to crosswords.
DeleteI started one book two different times. Could not get into it. A few years later, I read it with glee and enjoyed the rest of her books. Susan Wittig Albert's version of Beatrix Potter's life. A series.
ReplyDeleteReading about BP will always be interesting.
DeleteI haven't heard of this author . I'll read one if she ever pops up here. I don't like any of Agatha Christie's short stories. I've read a few and they always disappoint. Mind you I'm not enthusiastic about her books anymore. Some of the plots are just too convoluted and impossible.
ReplyDeleteI've just checked, and there were 8 short stories in the book. Only 3 of them were interesting. Not a good percentage.
DeleteI have read quite a few of hers and really enjoyed Moon Tiger. “Was she someone? Enquires the nurse”
ReplyDeleteA deserving Booker winner. I am working my way through the 2024 l am working my way through the 2024 Booker longlist and nothing, so far, could hold a candle to Moon Tiger.
Join your local library and you need never be bookless - horrible thought.
My wife has just joined for us. I do enjoy PL's writing, but I simply thought the narrative a bit slow and lacking in Oooomph.
DeleteA book that is depressing does not sound very appealing. There must be something better. Look at: "My Quiet Life in Suffolk" (blog) and you'll find some great recommendations. Most of her books come from the library which is always a great source.
ReplyDeleteI do occasionally visit her blog. I must make a point of it.
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