By member Ken Glover.
A large turnout of members met in the Club on Tuesday, 28 April last to discuss their feelings about this book.
Most discussion centred on the merits of the Booker Prize award for 2025. There was significant praise for the compelling story of the central character, Istavan, a young Hungarian adolescent, moved through the various and different stages of his life, particularly his male behaviour. The negatives were also pointed out during deliberations on the award for this book.
The hero Istavan was not an attractive character, an outsider trying to make his way in the modern world. To many, this proved to be the attraction in the narrative.
While there was some appreciation for the Booker Prize award, our members still came away perplexed and uncertain of the accolades given by the judges.
Notwithstanding, our readers gave it a high mark across the board, with an average of 7 out of 10, which signifies an enjoyable read.
The 3-word summaries included:
“When flesh fails / Power without glory / Seductive survival story / Unique, frustrating character”
The book designated for May reading is: A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
A captivating novel exploring resilience, purpose, and the beauty of unexpected change as Count Alexander Rostov, sentenced to lifelong house arrest in Moscow’s grand Metropol Hotel, discovers connection, growth, and meaning within its walls during decades of Russian history, in this witty and unforgettable bestselling story.
If you would like to sign up for May’s book club, please click the button below:
