Monday, 31 August 2020

Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart

 





This book is about the optimism and loyalty of humanity that can be found against a terrible background. The plot covers eleven years in the relationship between an alcoholic and her son. There is so much I want to discuss about the plot, but I will not do so as I don't want to spoil it.


The quality of the writing is very high and contrasts with the miserableness of what it describes. The similes and metaphors are breathtaking; the author goes into great detail about everyday events. There is much cynicism in the way he describes things, the names of beers, the sound of a lager tin being opened, drunkenness, abuse, poverty, terrible living conditions, poor architecture, violence.


I could say so much more, but I won't spoil it for you. You will enjoy your own ride through this brilliant book. I highly recommend it and I really hope it wins the Booker Prize this year, it very much so deserves it.

No comments:

Post a Comment