25th November 2010
We had a lengthy and lively discussion about this book, so at least it sparked some discussion. Richard went last to add weight to his lifelong experience in the field of alcoholism and its impact on drinkers and their families. He felt that Ashdown captured the truth of the child's experience in an alcoholic house remarkably well - the click,clack of the gin cupboard, and the resignation on having his pocket money stolen for drink might be examples. It is fair to say everyone enjoyed the book with the possible exception of Mark Th.
We all agreed it was easy to read, and that we became immersed in excellent characterizations. It is an evocative read, capturing life in the 60s/70s/80s really well, with a great sense of place - IOW, Portsmouth and France. Some of us liked the drawing of the old shop-keeper and Jakes growing relationship with him. She also caught Billy's sad, bitter old mother well. In general this is a story under the skin of very ordinary lives, with the usual array of personal triumphs and tragedies.
There was debate over whether Mary died as a result of an accident or suicide, ultimately unresolved. The split chapters between young Mary and Jake split the group a bit - some thought it worked well, others thought it detracted. But it did not serve to confuse anyone - so maybe we could all live with it? - and the convergence of stories was quite liked. Most thought Jake was better drawn than Mary. We rather regretted that the author admits to attending a creative writing course: a bit like hard porn, it detracts from the 'mysterious magic'. Or maybe us Brits just like things to appear effortless and amateur?!
The biggest black mark from the discussion was the ending. It was felt that the suicide/accident was not really required and the response of Billy to it seemed more of like a fantasy than reality. The introduction of the idea that Mary was actually a manic depressive seemed out of place. Ashdown appeared to be swayed by her writing course to go for a dramatic finish.
We talked over what triggered Mary's alcoholism and why she continued drinking, and the coping mechanisms those around her developed.
The most damning indictments came from Mark Th who ultimately found the book 'really boring' and possibly Rob who saw it as 'an OK read'.
6.68
