Room is the story of Jack and his Ma. Jack has just turned 5 when the book opens. Room is where Jack and Ma live. The world is 11' by 11' to Jack - that's the size of the room his mother has been imprisoned in since she was kidnapped seven years ago - and where Jack was born.
The day to day life, routines, games and learning Ma has developed to raise an imaginative, intelligent, happy little boy under seemingly overwhelming circumstances were simply amazing. The relationship between mother and child had me in tears - it was unbelievably poignant. The book is told in Jack's voice. And what a voice Donoghue has created! Jack's view of his 'world' is by turns heartbreaking, funny, frightening yet joyful and optimistic. Just think - this little boy does not realize that there is a world outside of their space. space.
It is when Jack turns five, that Ma fears the room is getting too small and that time is running out....
I've tried many times to put my thoughts into words for this review and have come up short every time. All I can say is it's a book you want to read. A gut wrenching, emotional, terrifying, addicting, hopeful, satisfying read that you won't be able to put down. Really. Watch the trailer....
Read an excerpt of Room.
Certainly we have all read about cases like this in newspaper headlines. Read this great essay from Donoghue - Writing Room - how and why. You can find Emma Donoghue on Facebook as well or visit Roomthebook.com.
Donghue has been short listed for the Man Booker Prize for Room, winner to be announced Oct 12th. She's got my vote for the win.
I think this is the third review I've read for this one where the blogger had a hard time put their thoughts into words for it. Seems like it's a very interesting story.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to read this one. As Ladytink said, I've read a few reviews where reviewers couldn't figure out how to express it except just... read the book.
ReplyDeleteI thought this book was great too. I think it's hard to review because you don't want to give too much away.
ReplyDeleteOh I can't wait to read this one... it is coming up on my list soon!
ReplyDeleteI'm going to have to get my hands on a copy of this book. I'm so upset I passed on it at BEA.
ReplyDeleteI just finished this book last week and it's AMAZING - I agree with you - it's one of the best of the year for me too :)
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I cannot wait to read this book. It's been on my list since Jackie reviewed it (Farm Lane Books) and you just confirmed it for me....I've got to get my hands on it!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great review. I can't wait to read this book!
ReplyDeleteThe subject matter sounds intriguing. I've read such mixed reviews of this book; it seems like people who liked it, REALLY liked it, while others felt it didn't live up to the hype.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to read it. Great review!