A review by rickwren
Stone Arabia by Dana Spiotta

2.0

Nick Worth is a fascinating character study. He prolifically writes, creates, performs - for himself, for his own memories. Told from the point of view of Denise, Nick's younger sister we learn about Nick in a nonlinear, troubled narrative. We learn about his failures, his lovers, his life and his successes, mostly internal. Ada, Denise's daughter provides the transition from chronicle to documentary, from aspiration to legitimacy. All of this book delves into what makes Nick who he is. However, there is no plot. Nick Worth is a character study and Stone Arabia is a vehicle and the entire exercise is a study, but there is no plot. I need a plot or I'm just looking at a photo on a wall without context or purpose.