The cover design is a genius idea - a simple page which seems to reflect the diary in which a retired headteacher (our MC) keeps track of his thoughts. I really like that.
And writing is a theme that continues. The book begins with selections of responses to exercises set by his therapist, all helping him come to terms with the blame he attaches to those reponsible for the death of his wife in a terrorist attack.
If it wasn't for the dreadful situation he finds himself in, a headteacher who is set 'tasks' yet repeatedly 'fails' to achieve the desired psychological result presents a curiously ironic scenario. Particularly as the methods of instruction he previously imposed on others to address their behaviour seemed unfair and petty.
Still he remains stuck on his own little island where he's used to making ALL the rules, before deciding which punishment would be best for breaking them. But he no longer has that 'privilage'. Or does he?
Well, the jury's still out for me on this one: yes, I can absolutely see this being a morally fascinating read (seriously, that would be amazing). BUT I just wasn't completely drawn into this story, and for that reason I can't guarantee I'd be fully invested in its outcome.
However, this is the kind of book I may pursue at a later date just to satisfy my own curiosity...
And writing is a theme that continues. The book begins with selections of responses to exercises set by his therapist, all helping him come to terms with the blame he attaches to those reponsible for the death of his wife in a terrorist attack.
If it wasn't for the dreadful situation he finds himself in, a headteacher who is set 'tasks' yet repeatedly 'fails' to achieve the desired psychological result presents a curiously ironic scenario. Particularly as the methods of instruction he previously imposed on others to address their behaviour seemed unfair and petty.
Still he remains stuck on his own little island where he's used to making ALL the rules, before deciding which punishment would be best for breaking them. But he no longer has that 'privilage'. Or does he?
Well, the jury's still out for me on this one: yes, I can absolutely see this being a morally fascinating read (seriously, that would be amazing). BUT I just wasn't completely drawn into this story, and for that reason I can't guarantee I'd be fully invested in its outcome.
However, this is the kind of book I may pursue at a later date just to satisfy my own curiosity...