This may not be up with her best, but any
Penelope Lively novel is worth reading. She’s a wonderful writer.
For once she’s playing with a formula rather than
seeing where her characters lead her. The formula is similar to a game of
consequences. Because something happens to A, this has an effect on B, and that
involves C and their relationship with D and so on.
So when feisty pensioner Charlotte is mugged
and breaks her hip, it means her daughter Rose has to look after her and can’t
accompany her boss to a lecture he’s giving in Manchester, which means his
niece Marion has to go instead, which means she sends a text to her lover which
is intercepted by his wife, etc. etc. etc.
It’s really enjoyable seeing this almost mathematical
equation work itself out and it was a pleasure meeting these people, most of
whom are kind and doing their best.
An easy but rewarding read.
No comments:
Post a Comment