Friday, May 26, 2006

the curious incident of the dog in the night-time

I finally finished The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon. As many have mentioned, it is a wonderful read that one can devour over a short period.

Set in the British town of Swindon, the story introduces us to a stubborn, eccentric, accidentally charming teenager named Christopher Boone. Christopher, who suffers from Asperger's syndrome, views life through a different lens. With a stellar aptitude for mathematics, Christopher can tackle complex math and logic problems. However, due to Asperger's, he has trouble qualifying the emotions of others, as well as his own. A young man of solitude, crowds and small talk tend to frighten him. And yet Haddon takes us on a thrilling, suspenseful journey through an everyday environment many of us take for granted.

The book is a tour-de-force of original voice. Haddon not only makes Christopher incisively real, but figuratively paints such an empathetic picture that it is impossible not to be enraptured by the story (and the hero which centers it). And the story itself is not simply a mystery or peculiar thriller, but a complete slice of life revolving around a unique and courageous young man.

If you're looking for a great read with a unique voice and a tinge of deadpan wit, look no further than this book. I highly recommend it.

7 comments:

Marcia said...

whenever I see cars of the same color in a row, I think of this book.

M-M-M-Mishy said...

I read this book in an afternoon because I just could not put it down. I agree; its a very good read.

sage said...

Good review. Thanks. I haven't read it, but it sounds like others who read it agree with your recommendation.

GetFlix said...

Sounds like a great summer read, and a great bookreview, V!!

ffleur said...

V: this is a GREAT book and terrific choice to review. I hope more people will read it now.

It was interesting that the book also shows how difficult it is to be a single parent. Raising a child is hard enough, but one with a disability is even tougher. I'm glad the writer showed some sensitivity to that aspect.

I thought of a solution to one of this boy's problems. Remember when he walked thru the train station and all the noise about knocked him out? Headset with music or white noise would be just the ticket, don't you think?

Anonymous said...

I'm starting to feel like the only person who doesn't have this book yet! Have to add to reading list. Thanks for the reminder.

v said...

ffleur: Great point about the authentic, unsentimental portrayal of being a single parent. As well as the fleeting embrace that is the modern relationship.

I think the character of the father is at times the most sympathetic since he goes to such lengths to take care of his son. It's a sign of striking authenticity that there's no hollywood ending despite the struggles the father must endure.

It really is such a great book. For those who have read it, please comment away!