A review by claudiaswisher
You Shall Know Our Velocity! by Dave Eggers

4.0

I read the reviews that compared this book to ON THE ROAD and CATCHER IN THE RYE. I see the connections, but Eggers is doing more and less than these books. I don't think he was really trying to chronicle his generation as Keroauc was, and I think he was reaching for that same survivor guilt I see in Holden's behavior. Knowing the tragedies in Eggers's life, I can ache with Will when he finally has to slow down enough for grief to ambush him. He and Hand, his friend, are trying to outrun the reality of their new life -- a life that no longer includes their friend Jack.

There are funny scenes, touching scenes, frustrating scenes. But at heart, Eggers loves life and he cherishes it, I believe. I wanted more, more epiphany -- more self awareness. I wanted the two to help each other, to talk about their feelings (oh, yeah! Guys don't do that, do they??). I wanted more than that farewell handshake as Will and Hand end their misguided attempt to circle the globe and give away thousands of dollars.

I wanted Will to figure out how to begin living the rest of his life...but the first page hints that there isn't more time for him.