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There are currently 15 member reviews
for The Crow Road
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Vicky (Salinas CA)
Death & Confusion
This book contains mystery, drunkenness, Scottish customs and dialects – sometimes difficult to follow - family secrets and romance. I really enjoyed the book and found myself wondering what the characters were doing even a day after finishing the book. I liked that the author presented the story in first person and third person format and included three generations. Book clubs would enjoy the book since there are many actions and thoughts that would start lively discussions.
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Lori (Albuquerque NM)
Truth, myth, and magic: beautifully told
Truth matters, especially about one's family. That's what Prentiss McHoan discovers in his close-knit community in Scotland.
This is a beautiful and compelling story, well-crafted with insights into human nature and the life of a small town through multiple generations.
An excellent book!
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Nicole (New York NY)
A moving family drama
This was a moving family drama with complex characters and an intricate story line. Told in flashback, the story unfolds in pieces and sometimes the author make you work to understand but it is a a rewarding and interesting read. From the feisty grandmother to the inquisitive main character, Prentice, I loved getting to know the characters.A dark mix of tragedy and humor keep you interested until the end.
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Julie (Bennington VT)
The Crow Road
When I dive into a novel, I want to be enveloped in its world, every sense engaged. I want the author to lead me by the hand, whispering into my ear. If this is you, too, you'll like The Crow Road by Iain Banks. Many and varied characters, connected in different ways over the years, a passionate main character coming of age in contemporary Scotland, just different enough from the American experience to be intriguing but not unfamiliar. Banks also writes science fiction, as Iain M. Banks, and there is a little touch of fancy, or magical realism in this novel, too. It's a little late for a beach read, but perfect to curl up with by the fire this winter.
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Debra (Culver City CA)
The Crow Road
I found this novel to be dark, macabre and sometimes funny. Probably if I knew more about Scotland and the culture it would have been more readable, as there were details and phrases that were beyond me. This out of it teenager is presented in a coming of age story that rings true because it is so unusual. However, this is not a universally fascinating Holden Caufield coming of age story. It is too idiosyncratic and unusual for that. Fascination with the past, as well as misunderstandings of the present combine to provide the details of an eccentric and unusual family and the central character. Themes of mortality and identity permeate the novel. For those fascinated with growing up in a different culture it will probably “hit the sweet spot”.
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Dana (Elbridge NY)
The Crow Road
I have never read Iain Banks and at first had a difficult time with the Scottish dialect. I found myself having to go back and reread sections to be sure I really understood what it meant.
I admit I found the book slow going and a challenge, but it was full of interesting personalities, family interactions and a very descriptive writing style.
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Cam (Murrells Inlet SC)
The Crow Road
This was the the first Iain Banks book that I've read, and was delighted to get the chance to read The Crow Road. I, however, was very disappointed, and agree with Kim who previously reviewed it...it jumped around so much that it was too confusing for me to enjoy.
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