I have mixed feelings about Never Let Me Go. I really didn’t like the story, but I liked the way it was told.
Kathy is our narrator, and she switches from present day (late 1990s) as a carer, to her time she spent at an exclusive boarding school called Hailsham when she was a child. This school is special, and it’s a while before we realize what’s special about the school, and we really never know the entire story – that’s part of what bothers me about this tale. I wanted more details. I want to know more about the donors, the veterans, and the carers. I want to know more about the history of this process, how it came to be acceptable, and how it was accomplished.
We learn a lot about the characters—their thoughts, feelings, experiences, and their interpretations of their lives. That’s what is special about this book-- the characters and how they deal with their lot in life as they grow up and realize all the ramifications of being donors.
Ishiguro’s writing is beautiful and fluid. The characters are all different and believable – not necessarily lovable. Throughout the book I didn’t think there was going to be a happy or even hopeful ending in store. I thought the ending was acceptable, given the subject matter. It's hard to say a lot about this book because I don't want to reveal any important plot points. The discovery of what it going on is essential to the enjoyment of the story.
I read this book because I saw the previews for the movie, and I always want to read the book before watching. I’m very interested to see how this works out on the screen – the best part of this novel was Ishiguro’s writing, so I don’t have much hope for the movie.
Published by Vintage Books, 2005
Copy obtained from the library
288 pages
Rating: 2.5/5
I am really sorry that this book didn't work for you - I loved it so much! I agree about the author's writing.
ReplyDeleteGreat review. It's always great to know a different perspective.
I also was drawn to this book because of the movie trailer! I know the book has gotten a lot of hype but I really enjoyed reading your review because it brings a different perspective to the book. I might give it a try, especially because of what you said about the author's writing. I hope the movie is as good as it looks, but I won't see it until after I read the book :)
ReplyDeleteGreat review :) Here's mine if you don't mind: http://lorxiebookreviews.blogspot.com/2013/05/never-let-me-go-by-kashuo-ishiguro.html
ReplyDeleteThanks and have a nice day!