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A review by readbynorah
There but for the by Ali Smith
5.0
What a brilliant read! I stumbled across the synopsis for this book and immediately went to the library and picked it up. It reads: "There once was a man who, one night between the main course and the sweet at a dinner party, went upstairs and locked himself in one of the bedrooms of the house of the people who were giving the dinner party . . .". Brilliant! I couldn't resist the urge to find out how this simple prompt would develop into a 350-page novel, and I'm glad I gave in to my curiosity.
Before this, I'd only read one of Smith's books - Winter - and I'm glad I returned to read more. The novel centers around four characters who are, in some way, connected to Miles Garth (the guy who locked himself in the bedroom), and they're all fantastic. Dearest to my heart is Brooke, who elevated the book with her wit and unique presence. Smith's ability to create such lovely and lifelike characters is commendable.
Smith's writing is something I adore. The constant play with words and stream-of-consciousness style perfectly enhances the book's absurdity. This book captivated me with the opening line and will stay in my brain for a long time. And, to be honest, if I had to attend that dinner party, I'd probably hide away as well.
Hats off to Ali Smith, a true cleverist indeed! I'm looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.
Before this, I'd only read one of Smith's books - Winter - and I'm glad I returned to read more. The novel centers around four characters who are, in some way, connected to Miles Garth (the guy who locked himself in the bedroom), and they're all fantastic. Dearest to my heart is Brooke, who elevated the book with her wit and unique presence. Smith's ability to create such lovely and lifelike characters is commendable.
Smith's writing is something I adore. The constant play with words and stream-of-consciousness style perfectly enhances the book's absurdity. This book captivated me with the opening line and will stay in my brain for a long time. And, to be honest, if I had to attend that dinner party, I'd probably hide away as well.
Hats off to Ali Smith, a true cleverist indeed! I'm looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.