God Of Small Things
Arundhati Roy
Like ripened fruit Roy presents her tale in delicate segments, gently pulling apart each piece to reveal the mystery enclosed at its core. In truth I struggled with this book and twice nearly gave up. It was not till 2/3rds into it that I finally fell in love with the narrative. The following quote marks the pivotal moment when The God Of Small Things stops being a string of beautifully constructed sentences and turns into narrative that I identify with.
'In the great stories you know who lives, who dies, who finds love, who doesn't. And yet want to know again. That is the mystery and their magic.'
The strength of this book lies in its originality. With poise, wry wit and sharp intellect, Roy creates a narrative based around her flawed, blemished characters. The result is a cleverly created plot, teased out in a shuffle of interlocking chapters. The last chapter is possibly the most beautiful narrative I have ever read on human frailty, love and loss.
The God of Small Things is a rare and highly ambitious tale that has stayed with me long after the last page. 4.5 stars
About Me
- Banafsheh Serov
- Australia
- I am passionate about the written language. I love writing, reading, reviewing, selling and promoting books. I am an independent bookseller with over 20 years of experience in the book trade. Together with my partners, I actively aim to improve our bookstore's range and services to better reflect the needs of our community and clientele. In 2008, my memoir 'Under A Starless Sky' was published by Hachette, Australia. Since then, I had a short story 'Jasmine Petals' published in 'Stories of Belonging' (Finch) and in 2013, released my first full-length novel, The Russian Tapestry, also by Hachette. I am currently writing my second novel. I strive daily to improve my skills and stretch the limits of my craft. My love of books has naturally lead to reviewing. You can follow me on Twitter @B_Serov, Facebook www.facebook.com/BanafshehSerov and Goodreads www.goodreads.com/author/show/1429016.Banafsheh_Serov
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Mao's Last Dancer - Li Cunxin
Mao's Last Dancer
Li Cunxin
Viking
The sixth of seven boys, Li is born into a poor yet proud Chinese peasant family. At 11 he is selected by Madam Mao's men searching the countryside for children who can be developed into ballet dancers. Knowing nothing of the arts, Li leaves his small village and moves to the Beijing Dance Academy where he spends the next seven years perfecting his art. On a scholarship to Houston Li defects, greatly angering the Chinese government. Battling heartache, loneliness and guilt, Li rises to eventually become one of the most celebrated leading men in the world of ballet.
Peppered with Chinese parables, anecdotes and fables that add authenticity, Li retells his story with care, poise and balance. His love and respect for his parents throughout the book adds a touching note which I personally found particularly moving.
Full of grace, dignity and gravity, Mao's Last Dancer is an inspiring story of a remarkable man who risks everything to achieve his dream. 4 Stars
Li Cunxin
Viking
The sixth of seven boys, Li is born into a poor yet proud Chinese peasant family. At 11 he is selected by Madam Mao's men searching the countryside for children who can be developed into ballet dancers. Knowing nothing of the arts, Li leaves his small village and moves to the Beijing Dance Academy where he spends the next seven years perfecting his art. On a scholarship to Houston Li defects, greatly angering the Chinese government. Battling heartache, loneliness and guilt, Li rises to eventually become one of the most celebrated leading men in the world of ballet.
Peppered with Chinese parables, anecdotes and fables that add authenticity, Li retells his story with care, poise and balance. His love and respect for his parents throughout the book adds a touching note which I personally found particularly moving.
Full of grace, dignity and gravity, Mao's Last Dancer is an inspiring story of a remarkable man who risks everything to achieve his dream. 4 Stars
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