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Scintillation (2011)

by John Burnside(Favorite Author)

3.01 of 5 Votes: 3

ISBN

2864248387 (ISBN13: 9782864248385)

languge

English

genre

Horror

publisher

Métailié

review 1: John Burnside's Glister reminds us that truly great books pose problems facile novels never do; their pages don't turn quickly; the reader doesn't magically identify with the heroes or protagonists of great books; and the eternal questions don't get answered, so much as they shed their skins and become larger mysteries. Neither Leonard, the logical protagonist, nor Morrison, the solitary police constable of Innertown, come off as terribly likable or sympathetic, but that fact doesn't deter the reader from Identifying with each of them at one point or another. Nor does the ability to identify with either one alter the cold narrative logic each must obey. In making their own choices, they seem even more imprisoned by their character and roles in the small town by a closed ch... moreemical plant. This book chills the heart, and fires the mind. It took me two years to read, the last hundred pages whizzing by in a day. Great books don't guarantee epiphanies, peace of mind, more of a sense of community, or even the need to rush forth and recommend them to all your friends. This one, for instance, I could not recommend to any of my friends with children, especially those who are mothers to adolescent boys. This book would sear the souls of such parents, giving shape and form to their worst nightmares. Yet, it is a great book, fraught with memorable words, a story of emotive power, distinct characters, and a number of unsettling ideas.
review 2: Very beautiful prose, unfortunately draped over a weak and vague plot. Despite the story line, the author's criticism of industrialization comes across loud and clear. I think it's still worth the read if even just for the way the author uses his words; the vivid illustrations of character and setting very effectively create a haunting, tragic, yet alluring atmosphere. Shame there wasn't more meat on the bone. less

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