But, I have just closed the cover of Flesh, by David Szalay, and I am powerless to describe its impact. I am, after all, a reader, not a writer.
May I tell you, that without a doubt, it is the best book I have read all year. It is a masterpiece of fiction, outstanding in every way, and I would be remiss not to tell you this in my half forgotten blog.
I applaud the judges for the Booker Prize 2025. They have awarded the prize to the most worthy piece of literature this year, restoring my faith in the recognition of truly outstanding writing.
For that is what David Szalay has offered.
I've been eyeing this book since it was shortlisted for the Booker Prize, and I am now more inclined to read it having read your post, Meredith. Thank you for popping in and sharing your thoughts. Miss you!
ReplyDeleteSo many times, as I mentioned at the top of this post, the prize winners are an utter disappointment to me. For one thing, they seem to have a political agenda which I find quite distasteful. But this? It is one I want to add to my collection. If I hadn’t left my Book Club this year, it is one I would love to discuss. There is so much to contemplate in the “hero”, István. Well, if you read it, we can chat.
DeleteI miss you, too! Lots of health things have been going on, between my husband, my parents, and even myself, but also, I find wanting to blog comes and goes. That doesn’t mean I don’t miss my original friends, though!
Your first line made me laugh! I haven't tried this one, perhaps for similar reasons, but I'm happy to hear that you liked it so much. I will set aside my skepticism and seek it out.
ReplyDeleteGlad to bring you a smile, Andrew. Do you not feel some scorn when you look at some of the past winners? Perhaps I am the only one, who tires of winners which reflect a certain agenda above a literary one.
DeleteAt any rate, do pick this up. I didn’t write a review, per se, only giving my highest commendation. But, the hero, here, Istvan, is such a multi-faceted character. He displays such integrity, despite such opposition, that I couldn’t help admiring him greatly. Through my tears.