The Ocean at the End
of the Lane
Neil Gaiman
Neil Gaiman has been a favorite of mine for some time. I started with Neverwhere several years ago and have read everything he has published since. He continues to amaze me with his storytelling talent and the subjects he writes about. The Ocean at the End of the Lane is no different in subject matter. Gaiman continues to pull of his magic.
The Ocean… is a bit different from Gaiman’s other books in that the book can almost be read in one sitting. It is, I believe his shortest book of his career. That doesn’t mean he skimped. Far from it. This being his most recent novel, Gaiman made the book the perfect length. Infused with a child like atmosphere, there is also just enough suspense to keep adults riveted as well. One thing Mr Gaiman never has a challenge with is ending his books. This one once again is no exception. Pick this quick little book up and I guarantee you’ll be happier for it.
Find out what's happening in Madisonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The Golem and the Jinni
Helene Wecker
There are very few books I’ve read where I don’t want the book to end, so I slow way down. The Golem and the Jinni is one such book. This book sucked me in from the very first page. Chava is the golem of this story, a creature made of clay by a rabbi in the old world to accompany a man on his trip to the America. Left alone when she is awakened on the journey across the ocean she comes to find another rabbi who takes the golem under his wing, guiding her through the travails of life in America. This is where the story starts.
Find out what's happening in Madisonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
A parallel story runs alongside the golem’s. The second story is of the Jinni who is discovered living trapped in a flask. Once the Jinni is released he comes under the tutelage of a tinsmith. This is the type of book that I completely lose myself in. The last time I felt so possessive of a book was with Kim Wilkins The Veil of Gold. As I said at the start of this review, there aren’t many books that I don’t want to end. The Veil of Gold was the last time I felt that way. The Golem and the Jinni is now the next book I feel so strongly about.
And just to show how strongly I do feel about these two books I’m only reviewing these two this week.
Until next time…
…Turn the page.
–
Chris
Feel free to comment here on Patch or jump on over to my blog:
New Summer Fantasy 2013
