rainalina (USA: MI) (2007/02/19): "All the elements of the author's oeuvre are present in this new novel: children killed in a tragic accident that their parents view as their own fault; prep school send-ups; a sexual relationship that many would consider inappropriate, if not downright objectionable--all illuminated by the thin light of loss. Nothing is missing but one of Irving's trademark bears." (amazon.com) Kellie (USA: NC) (2008/03/09): When I think about a book written by John Irving, the picture that comes to mind is a vine; a vine that weaves within itself and spreads thick in it’s own mass. This is the 3rd Irving book I have read. Irving uses some of the same themes in his many novels. Boarding schools, younger men with older women are some that immediately come to mind. This particular book is about a family that lives in The Hamptons. The father, Ted is an author of children’s books. The wife, Marion, is also an author but she does not begin her career as a writer until later on in life. The family is ripped apart when a car accident kills their 2 sons. They have a daughter, Ruth, after the accident in an attempt to bring their family back together. When Ruth is 4, Ted hires a student, Eddie, to help him with his writing for the summer. At least, that is what he says. The book is split into 3 parts and covers almost 40 years. Irving takes these 4 characters and begins weaving his plot in such articulate detail, it hovers on the line of genius. After reading these books, I always feel like I missed the true meaning of the story and feel obligated to read it again. I did enjoy this novel, however, I felt overwhelmed on occasion in parts that dragged. I lost patience at times. This still does not take away from my respect for this writer who I think is one of the best in the business.
