Books
by George Saunders
|
Lincoln in the Bardo |
As an American, I learnt many appealing stories about Abraham Lincoln, none prepared me for this dark and heavy rendering of an intensely sad period in his life. I kept putting it down, resting from the hard work needing to digest it, then doggedly continuing. Yes I truly value and appreciate the unique style and scenario devised by this professor of creative writing. And yes, I did finish it. But did I enjoy it? I leave you to guess!
(Sharron Calkins - bwl 87 Winter 2018) |
|
|
Lincoln in the Bardo |
As the Civil War rages President Lincoln grieves for his young son, Willie, and visits the crypt. His grief and their mutual love trap Willie in the bardo* where we meet a veritable cast of 'ghosts'. I appreciated Saunders' creativity, humour and found it very moving in places. However, I did not thoroughly enjoy the book. The style felt mostly like a script and perhaps unusually an audio version would have resonated better with me.
*Bardo is a transitional realm in Tibetan culture rather like purgatory.
(Christine Miller - bwl 100 Spring 2021) |
|
|
The 10th December |
The best book of short stories I have read. Brilliant writing, often sad but very funny too, showing an exaggerated near-future of US everyday life. Mostly desperate individuals try to support their families and relate to others in a ruthless and surreal world, but show how strong and selfless they can be. I'm baffled by some negative Amazon reviews - takes all sorts! (but it is maybe not for all). First story is difficult to get into, but persevere . . .
(Victoria Grey-Edwards - bwl 82 Autumn 2016) |
|
|
|
