A challenging read: The Sentimentalists had qualities but tested members' patience. November saw the Tyneside Book Group discuss The Sentimentalists - an award-winning first novel by Canadian poet Johanna Skibsrud.
Members found this a challenging read. Its fractured narrative making it tricky to get a grip on. There was also some confusion about the relationships described.
For many it also failed to really cover any new ground. Its focus on the Vietnam War and the impact of it on the veteran and his family may have been well-drawn but it was not strikingly original.
There were times when the author's poetic background intruded both positively and negatively. There was some good writing but also some that could have been sharper. Convoluted sentences often acted as a barrier and caused frustration.
Some members did find the power of the novel grew as it reached its conclusion and the details of the veteran's back story emerged. This was an attempt by a daughter to understand her father. For some the author's determination not to provide easy, clear answers was a strength, but for others the ambiguity was irritating.
Many did though find it hard to understand just how much critical praise this novel had received, although there were signs the author could go on to produce something more worthy of an award.
Members found this a challenging read. Its fractured narrative making it tricky to get a grip on. There was also some confusion about the relationships described.
For many it also failed to really cover any new ground. Its focus on the Vietnam War and the impact of it on the veteran and his family may have been well-drawn but it was not strikingly original.
There were times when the author's poetic background intruded both positively and negatively. There was some good writing but also some that could have been sharper. Convoluted sentences often acted as a barrier and caused frustration.
Some members did find the power of the novel grew as it reached its conclusion and the details of the veteran's back story emerged. This was an attempt by a daughter to understand her father. For some the author's determination not to provide easy, clear answers was a strength, but for others the ambiguity was irritating.
Many did though find it hard to understand just how much critical praise this novel had received, although there were signs the author could go on to produce something more worthy of an award.
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