Let me put it this way, if these people were my acquaintances, I'd probably be busy when they called. This inside seat for endless family judgments on each other is not the way I'd choose to spend my reading time, but yes, there are some uniquely expressed nuggets within,
…more which are something to jot down and tape to your computer screen for later; and the unusual inclusion of interspersed poetry I found an enjoyable, unexpected respite. The "Phil" chapter near the 3/4 mark in the book was beautifully atmospheric and poetic in itself which was Phil after all by label anyway. For example: "...and it was not a house to me so much as a creaking ship, a groaning night creature, ploughing the dark waves." So for those who enjoy reads that are slight on plot but heavy on character study and don't have enough family drama of their own, this might be for you. Anne Enright is a highly praised author. (less)