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A review by jedore
Atonement by Ian McEwan
5.0
Ian McEwan’s “Atonement” is a tour de force...the message is powerful, the story takes twists and turns as it changes perspectives, the characters are developed to perfection, and the writing is brilliant. Although a bit wordy throughout, I still loved this novel and placed it on my “All-Time Favorites” bookshelf.
“Atonement” tells the story of a young girl who witnesses her older sister in situations beyond the capacity of her understanding. What transpires is tragic and conveys to readers the dangers of assumption and the destructive power of words. As the story progresses, we see individuals destroyed and a family crumble as a result of the young girl’s naivete coupled with her need to control what she doesn’t understand. Although deep in her consciousness, she fears she is filling in blanks with shaky assumptions, she stubbornly stands her ground until events spiral forward beyond her control. Fear and weakness imprison her.
This book - and the excellent screen adaptation - reinforces the importance that one should never rely on assumptions as fillers and never be anything less than impeccable with words. It definitely makes you realize how much power we all hold in our hands...hopefully, we all hold on very tight!
“Atonement” tells the story of a young girl who witnesses her older sister in situations beyond the capacity of her understanding. What transpires is tragic and conveys to readers the dangers of assumption and the destructive power of words. As the story progresses, we see individuals destroyed and a family crumble as a result of the young girl’s naivete coupled with her need to control what she doesn’t understand. Although deep in her consciousness, she fears she is filling in blanks with shaky assumptions, she stubbornly stands her ground until events spiral forward beyond her control. Fear and weakness imprison her.
This book - and the excellent screen adaptation - reinforces the importance that one should never rely on assumptions as fillers and never be anything less than impeccable with words. It definitely makes you realize how much power we all hold in our hands...hopefully, we all hold on very tight!