Scan barcode
A review by linzer712
Never Fall Down by Patricia McCormick
2.0
Because of the subject matter, a young person's experiences of the Cambodian genocide under Khmer Rouge (which is, of course, so painful and important), I think it's hard to say that you "like" or "don't like" this novel, but I sure do wish I liked it more.
Patricia McCormick novel is based on Arn Chorn-Pond's experiences as a young boy thrust into incredibly trying situations as he is separated from his family, witnesses countless deaths, is forced to become a member of Khmer Rouge himself, and must find a way to survive. The story stretches over about five years of Chorn-Pond's life, and he experiences more than most could imagine in that time.
McCormick chose to write the novel from Chorn-Pond's perspective and in broken English with simple, fragmented sentences. For me, this is where the problem lies. The narrative style is completely matter-of-fact, devoid of much depth of emotion, and completely lacks any imagery, metaphor, or abstractions. Unfortunately, as a result, I had a very difficult time emotionally connecting with the novel, and this very short book became very difficult to read.
Arn Chorn-Pond's story is essential for people to know; however, I think I would prefer to hear it in his true voice and in his words.
Patricia McCormick novel is based on Arn Chorn-Pond's experiences as a young boy thrust into incredibly trying situations as he is separated from his family, witnesses countless deaths, is forced to become a member of Khmer Rouge himself, and must find a way to survive. The story stretches over about five years of Chorn-Pond's life, and he experiences more than most could imagine in that time.
McCormick chose to write the novel from Chorn-Pond's perspective and in broken English with simple, fragmented sentences. For me, this is where the problem lies. The narrative style is completely matter-of-fact, devoid of much depth of emotion, and completely lacks any imagery, metaphor, or abstractions. Unfortunately, as a result, I had a very difficult time emotionally connecting with the novel, and this very short book became very difficult to read.
Arn Chorn-Pond's story is essential for people to know; however, I think I would prefer to hear it in his true voice and in his words.