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the accidental by Ali Smith
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Author:  ellie [ 12 May 06, 20:43 ]
Post subject:  the accidental by Ali Smith

I have just finished this book and think it is one of the most original books, I have read since 'The Time Traveller's Wife'. It tells the story of the Smart family, parents, Eve and Michael and children Magnus and Astrid who are staying in a holiday home in Norfolk. A stranger called Amber comes into their lives and her arrival is life-changing for all the family. The story is told from the different points of view of the members of the family and the author really does pull of this rotating view point very well. She even manages to include some really clever techniques, such as part of Michael's story, which is told in sonnet form (he is an English literature professor). The character of Amber is hard to pin down although perhaps the short sections of the book which are possibly told using her narrative voice give more away about her than any of her interactions with the Smart Family.

I can't say too much without spoiling the book, but would really recommend it. The ending was so unexpected, I really didn't see it coming and the characters are so well written that you almost can feel them change, as if you knew them in real life.

It also has an absolutely fantastic chapter on a certain period of time within history and the movies, a lot of which I am familiar with, which I thought was so good, I may post on the favourite excerpts from books thread.

It takes a little while to get used to the writing style, but is well worth the effort and does flow once you get used to it.

Author:  AliceInWonderland [ 30 May 06, 16:06 ]
Post subject: 

I've seen this in a lot of book shops on the "3 for 2" offers and almost got it yesterday. It sounds good so maybe when I next do my book shopping I'll grab it.

Author:  BBoop [ 18 Jun 06, 21:48 ]
Post subject: 

I have started this today. You're right it takes a little while to get used to the writing but I shall take your word for it ellie that it's worth persisting. It is certainly popular, I am unable to renew it at the library as it has so many holds on it so I need to read it quick.

Author:  BBoop [ 20 Jun 06, 9:26 ]
Post subject:  Re: the accidental by Ali Smith

ellie wrote:

It also has an absolutely fantastic chapter on a certain period of time within history and the movies, a lot of which I am familiar with, which I thought was so good, I may post on the favourite excerpts from books thread.



I read that last night and thought it was brilliant ellie! I read it a few times as I thought it was so clever ()^

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