My book group read Room by Emma Donoghue for our June pick.
Although everyone agreed that this wasn't a "feel good" book it was a story that created a lot of discussion. The story is told by a five year old boy, Jack. His whole world is a small room that he shares with his mother. There are occasional visits to "Ma" by "old Nick" while Jack sleeps in the wardrobe. Jack's mother was abducted at nineteen. She has endured abuse, a stillbirth and the birth of Jack. When it is finally time to leave captivity it is Jack that must be brave and go out into a world that he thought was only a pretend world on TV.
About the time many of us began to read Room the headlines were full of the escape of a young woman and her daughter born was she was captive. Those headlines were fuel for discussion as well, many times in a position of compare and contrast.
If you are looking for a relaxing summer read with little to think or worry about Room is not your choice. I would recommend it for not only the story value but also the discussion value to any serious reader. It is fairly short and an easy read.
No comments:
Post a Comment