Going underground

    

    I'm not in the habit of reading books about the seamier side of life, thugs, hit-men, prostitutes and the like, and so I was slightly concerned that William Boyd's new novel Ordinary Thunderstorms - which features all these types and more - would be not quite 'me'. I needn't have worried; it's superb. I was utterly enthralled by it, it's now on my books of the year list and I'm checking our shelves to see how many more Boyd novels I have to look forward to (Mr. C. has been a big fan for ages so there are quite a few here).

    The story begins with scientist Adam Kindred in London for interview for a research fellowship at Imperial College. A chance conversation with a fellow diner in a restaurant is the catalyst for an extraordinary chain of events, which in a matter of hours leads the solvent, respectable Adam to be on the run from the police, wanted for a crime he did not commit, homeless, penniless, and without even his identity. Going underground as he must do, he encounters a side to the life of the city that both threatens and sustains him, but his own resourcefulness and resilience in the face of the appalling events he witnesses and experiences is ultimately his salvation.

   If all this sounds depressing, be assured that it is not. Apart from the hugely imaginative, tightly written plot, the fast-paced and gripping story, what really makes the book is its tone. It's written in a major key, if you like; it has an almost tongue-in-cheek feel to it, and there's a warm humour which shows that the writer cares about his characters and which makes the reader feel similarly about them. It is simply terrific storytelling and fine writing combined, and I wish I could be more eloquent in my praise of it, but do read it and you'll see what I mean.

(If you visit William Boyd's website you can see a clip of him talking about 'writing about what you don't know', and as to the title of this post, here's the song - and it is mentioned in the book!).

   

Comments

[Danielle]

I actually don't mind seamier underside as long as it has a purpose. I've yet to read any Boyd, but I do have a few of his books on my shelves. I should start one of his older ones first, but will add this one to my list!

[Dark Puss]

I find all aspects of human life interesting and since I don't live on the seamy side of the tracks (well mostly I don't) then quality writing on those aspects is in some sense rather valuable. I'll see if I can track this down at the library.

[Anne]

Restless by william Boyd is one of my favourite books. I do not know anyone I've suggested it to who has not enjoyed it.

[Cornflower]

Thankyou, Anne, I'll add that one to my list!

[execute]

I have just read OT and loved it. Boyd is one of my favourite writers, just read all he has published, you won't be disappointed.