Books
by Jonathan Franzen
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Crossroads |
Like his philosophical contemporary Marilynne Robinson with Gilead, but without being so doctrinaire, Franzen in Crossroads examines the dilemmas and relationships in one family, where the dichotomy is highlighted due to the head of the family being a suburban pastor. Often bitingly funny, and therefore a bit light-on when it comes to compassion and empathy, he still manages to make his characters relatable. Ever thought-provoking, Franzen has produced yet another engrossing read.
(Margaret Teh - bwl 104 Spring 2022) |
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Freedom |
This is a great American novel - moving, depressing, and hilarious at the same time. Wait till you're reading when Walter Belgrund is trying to convince his neighbours that their cats should stay indoors at all times for the sake of one species of birds he really cares about! It makes you think: Is this planet becoming really crazy? A very good novel.
(Laurence Martin Euler - bwl 62 Autumn 2011) |
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The Corrections |
A book that has caused much hype being labelled by some as the great American novel. Franzen draws the reader into the relationship dynamics of the Lambert family. A dysfunctional family with all the neuroses modern life can provide. Cleverly written and amusing although Franzen gets too complex in some passages for his own good. Perhaps not a masterpiece but certainly a grand achievement capturing the stark reality of American society today.
(Claire Bane - bwl 13 April 2002) |
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