This debut is so unique and like nothing I have read before! The book is in the style of a diary/journal and with no dates or page numbers takes a little getting used to. It is written from the perspective of Michael who lost his wife following a terrorist attack on a London train. Many years later he still cannot come to terms with his grief and believes that rather than the bombers themselves being to blame a politician, whose name is redacted throughout, is the one responsible and must pay the ultimate price. Within the pages we see Michael delve deep into his life and explore his innermost thoughts which are often brought to the surface as a result of the therapy he is receiving. Only one thing will be enough for Michael however; to plan the politician's murder!
I liked the fast paced nature and how the narrative slipped back and forth allowing me to learn about Michael's history including his job as a head teacher, his friendships following losing his wife (in particular with a former pupil named Paul) and his relationship with his daughter Amy. It provided a fascinating insight in to his thought processes and how he wishes he had reacted or done things differently both as a father and during his time as a head teacher. Moreover, it is an outlet for him to rationalise why he thinks the way he does about who is responsible for taking away his wife's life.
At times I could find myself sympathising with Michael and it almost felt like I was reading an autobiography. However, with a twist toward the end that I didn't see coming I really started to evaluate my previous thoughts about Michael. The ending itself in particular, although very clever I feel is open to interpretation and has left me wanting to know a lot more.
I would definitely recommend this unique and unusual read though, even with the questions that I now wish I had answers to!
I liked the fast paced nature and how the narrative slipped back and forth allowing me to learn about Michael's history including his job as a head teacher, his friendships following losing his wife (in particular with a former pupil named Paul) and his relationship with his daughter Amy. It provided a fascinating insight in to his thought processes and how he wishes he had reacted or done things differently both as a father and during his time as a head teacher. Moreover, it is an outlet for him to rationalise why he thinks the way he does about who is responsible for taking away his wife's life.
At times I could find myself sympathising with Michael and it almost felt like I was reading an autobiography. However, with a twist toward the end that I didn't see coming I really started to evaluate my previous thoughts about Michael. The ending itself in particular, although very clever I feel is open to interpretation and has left me wanting to know a lot more.
I would definitely recommend this unique and unusual read though, even with the questions that I now wish I had answers to!