The Sense of an Ending is narrated by Tony, and it's basically his life story you're going to hear. The novel is a character study -- not much of a plot, although there is an entertaining twist at the end.
Tony tells us about his friendship with three other boys, but in particular a boy named Adrian. They each go their own separate ways during college, and Tony starts up a romantic relationship, which eventually ends. And then Adrian and the ex begin a relationship and Tony loses touch with them. And then Adrian commits suicide.
So, Tony has "come of age" and we've heard a lot of details that seem a bit irrelevant. Once we hurry through Tony's progression to middle age, he begins to look back on his youth and try to make sense of some things. It's a short book, which is good, because I don't think I could have listened to much more.
I can see why this book is award winning. The writing is beautiful. If I hadn't been listening to the audio version, I'm sure I would have had to include some philosophical quotes -- of which there are many.
The narrator, Richard Morant, does a great job and lends authenticity to Tony's voice.
Definitely an adult book, but if you enjoy a meandering, philosophical, introspective look at one man's life (and don't' forget about that twist), then you should try The Sense of an Ending.
Published by Borzoi, 2011
Audiobook obtained from the library
176 pages
Rating: 3.5/5
Though not a personal favorite, either, this book was a good book club selection. It gave us so much to discuss and some gals noticed things that other gals missed.
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