3/5 stars.
Paperback, 247 pages.
Read from January 21 to February 05, 2013.
Forgive the brevity of this post, I’m in the middle of moving so my time is a bit short these days. I’ll be better for next week! Here’s a throwback review of the Pulitzer Prize winner, Gilead.
I’m still in some ways, not entirely sure what I want to say about this book. I never would have imagined that reading a journal about a minister’s life would be so intriguing. The book follows the memories and experiences of Congregationalist minister John Ames who grew up in the town of Gilead, Iowa. He is recounting his life for his son so that he will have something to remember him by as he is dying of a heart condition.
The book touches on the human condition and the different relationships between a father and son as well as tensions in regards to faith and religion. The book itself is a showcase of appreciation for beautiful ordinary things and learning to be grateful for them.
The writing style is extraordinary. Robinson is definitely up there with some of the classic authors with her style and voice.
I enjoyed the letter and journalistic style of this novel as well as the depth each character was portrayed. The sadness of a dying father writing a letter to his young son, in contrast with the contemplation of the John’s own life, relationships and religion is really enveloping. I’m interested to see what the corresponding novels to this are like because while I enjoyed this book I feel as if I’m missing a piece of a puzzle in which I can make out the picture but I’m missing some of the details.
Phenomenal writing and definitely worth the award that it received I would recommend this novel to anyone in a pondering mood.
The Pluviophile Writer 