The discussion of the book for month of February 2009
Posted by bangkokbookclub on March 14, 2009
“Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close” by Jonathan Safran Foer
The group was split between feeling that this was a fresh, innovative and incredibly creative novel, and it being confusing, improbable and extremely contrived. Some thought Oskar an impossibly precocious nine year old; others have know children of the same age quite like him, and felt his world of thoughts, expressions and actions fell within the realm of possibility (if not probability).
The main difference in option (similar to reviews of the book) seemed to be about the use of techniques not usually associated with adult novels – though there are plenty of examples to be found in children’s literature. The combination of these two elements creates a hybrid that seems to draw some readers into the novel (leaving them feeling engaged and excited), while it distances others (leaving them feeling manipulated and dissatisfied at a perceived lack of depth and substance).
The author’s sensitivity and balance in dealing with this difficult emotional and psychological subject matter (a young boy trying to come to terms with an devastating and sudden loss) was acknowledged and appreciated by everyone.
Regards,
Terri and Sharda
