My book group met last night to discuss On Beauty by Zadie Smith. We were split pretty evenly between those who loved it and those who couldn't even bring themselves to finish it. I was in the former group: I thought it was a terrifically fun read. I had the same impression I had after reading White Teeth; namely, how on earth did this young woman get so wise? Her ear for dialogue; her understanding of young/old, white/black, male/female issues; and her wicked sense of humor all captivated me. The story is a modern-day retelling of E. M. Forster's Howards End, but with a whole lot of sexual, racial, and political attitude. It's about two families, both headed by British Rembrandt scholars (one a liberal white and one a conservative black) who have a longstanding academic feud. Their wives couldn't be more different, and yet they strike up a friendship. The children get mixed up in it all as well, plus assorted other characters. It's a long book, but I never once tired of it. I found the characters believable and sympathetic—even when they were misbehaving outrageously. Give it a try, and tell me what you think.
Next up is Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See.
I want to read this so badly! I haven't read a novel in so very long--I'm hungry for a big juicy one, and I think I would fall into the "love it" camp. For Mohter's Day, I also want many hours of free time to lay about in the sunshine reading novels. Sigh. Happy Mother's Day to you, my friend!
Posted by: Janeen | May 13, 2006 at 01:26 PM