Archive for May, 2010
Early in the marriage of Matt and Lorna Faraday, Matt paints a fresco of the dance of life on their bedroom wall. This is a perfect image for the three generations of women, Lorna, Molly and Ruth, as they endeavor to follow their own desires in their dance of life, despite the conventional expectations of their families or society. The account takes place against the backdrop of financial deprivation before and during World War II, the new-found freedoms of the Sixties, and the financial Golden Age of the 80′s and 90′s. Lively’s story is a seamless blend of romance and social commentary. Her elegant prose appears effortless and is a joy to read. This is a compassionate affirmation of the ultimate power of love within generations. ~ Gretchen Echols
This debut novel (1994) by Tasmanian writer Richard Flanagan is one of the best literary works I’ve read in years. Aljaz Cosini is leading a group of tourists on a river rafting trip on the Franklin River. The trip is problematic from the start and now he is drowning. As he drowns he discovers he is having visions. They include the recent events that led to this horrible predicament, as well as the life events of different family members including ancestors he never met. This imaginative blend of magical realism and descriptive prose that includes the convict heritage of Tasmania and the lush land of the jungle is quirky, compelling and beautifully written. This novel sweeps the reader through the quiet spaces and rapids of one man’s life. ~ Gretchen Echols