Reviewed by: Pete Barber
Genre: General Fiction/Metaphysical
Approximate word count:
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Author:
Description:
The story examines
the lives of a group of folk living in a nursing home. All are elderly except
for a mentally challenged young man in his forties who is institutionalized,
and who brings to them, with his simplicity of mind—hope.
Appraisal:
I think this story would appeal more
to older people (like me) or to those with experience working in a nursing home
or institution, because the novel is more interesting if one can relate, and
younger readers probably won’t. In saying that, this was a very interesting
read that I enjoyed a lot.
The writing style is unusual. The
author uses short, simple sentences, which match well to the repetitive and
overly restrictive existence of the residents.
Last names create a caricature
feel—Ms. Steal, Ms. Sly, Grace Brethern (religious), Mr. Mouse, Mr. Dry (the
facility manager) and also connote, to an extent, their personalities.
The author does a nice job
highlighting many of the challenges facing both the staff and the residents of
the institution, without ever preaching a particular position. A tough line to
walk, but done with aplomb.
The ending would be surprising if it
hadn’t been constantly telegraphed throughout the story. Nevertheless, it is
bitter sweet.
Format/Typo Issues:
Very clean.
Rating: **** Four stars
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