Currently Reading

Reading: My Two Polish Grandfathers, by Witold Rybczynski.
Listening to: Blasphemy, by Douglas Preston.

Saturday, January 2, 2010

Review: Last Night in Twisted River


Irving, John. Last Night in Twisted River. (New York: Random House, 2009)

If you already love John Irving, and I do, you will enjoy this novel. If you're not a fan, this is not the book to change your mind.

Dominic Baciagalupo flees the New Hampshire logging camp where he is employed as cook, following an accidental fatal shooting. Dominic and and his son Daniel begin a life on the run, changing names and jobs each time their pursuer draws close.

As an adult, Daniel becomes a famous author, and Irving uses his character to deliver commentary and instruction on writing and publishing. At times, these sections of the book feel more like a writing seminar than a novel.

You can expect beautiful prose, over-the-top characters, and bizarre coincidences, all features that Irving fans enjoy. Unfortunately, the narrative moves forward in fits and starts, and it takes some stamina to stay with it.

Recommended for readers who enjoy other novels by John Irving.

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