James Kelman
1989
Around 340 pages
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A stream of consciousness novel written in a Scottish dialect does not make for an easy read. So I struggled through this one, even if I related to Patrick Doyle being a Bitter Betty.
Patrick is an unhappy teacher who is in love with another married teacher, Alison. Patrick discovers he is to be transferred out of his present school which is the result of Patrick asking for a transfer, although Patrick has no memory of doing so. The rest of the novel concerns Patrick's visit to his parents one weekend and then to his brother Gavin's home.
I know a lot of teachers, so the musings about the nature of the profession were amusing. Teachers are always entertaining when they are complaining. But the pacing was slow and as an American it was a bit inaccessible.
But hey, if you're a Scottish male teacher, this may be your book soulmate.
RATING: **---
Interesting Facts:
Interesting Facts:
Won the James Tait Black Memorial Prize.
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1 comment:
This part of your review:"A stream of consciousness novel written in a Scottish dialect..." was enough to let me know I wouldn't want to read this. However, as always, your review entertains!
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