Summer Book Club #4

Book #4 on the summer list...
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time











Ahhhhhhh, where to begin with this one?! This book was unlike any other book I have ever read which intrigued me to no end. It's rare, with all the reading we do as adults to come across a book that is totally against the grain but Mark Haddon achieved just that. The story is told from the perspective of an autistic boy who sets out to solve a mystery in his neighborhood. As he investigates we also learn about his school, the people in his life, and many things he likes and others he dislikes. The main character does not interact well with people because his emotions are so limited. This is the most unique element of the book. As you read you are somehow captivated by this story line even though its told from an emotionless perspective. This, in my opinion, is true artistry when it comes to writing. Although it was definitely worth it in the end, I can't say I enjoyed every part of this book. I had a hard time visualizing because it was so literal and I almost yearned for emotion or expression in many different parts. Although this is purely my own perspective, I do feel this was the authors goal. If the reader is intrigued enough to stay interested and want to know more, yet finds themselves frustrated with the absence of human emotion may be a glimpse of a life involving autism. Just a thought. In the end, yes I would recommend this book. It's a quick read and one that will definitely make you go, "hmmmmmmmmm."

Next up: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and I'm not making as much progress on this book as I'd like. I have a classroom calling my name so I am trying my best to balance it all to ensure I have it finished by the end of the weekend (and by this I mean both the book and my classroom, ambitious-yes, do-able-totally). It's a bit rainy and overcast in Des Moines today... the perfect cuddle up and read sort of day. Happy reading!