Pages

Friday, October 20, 2023

639. The Driver's Seat

The Driver's Seat
Muriel Spark
1970
Around 180 pages




















Unfortunately, we must now say goodbye to our bright Spark in the darkness, our good friend Muriel. Here's my official ranking of her work:

1. The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie
2. The Driver's Seat
3. Memento Mori
4. The Girls of Slender Means

So as you can see, The Driver's Seat is sitting pretty, although all of her novels are bangers. This is one of those stories that I'm reluctant to reveal any details about, as it's such a strange plot. Suffice to say, Lise is a confrontational woman who resolves to go on a great vacation and find the man of her dreams.

This is a very gripping and sick novella, which again is hard to discuss without spoilers. I think it is best read in one sitting, for maximum impact. Spark is such a master at pacing and revealing details to the reader at precisely the right time. 

For such a short novel, it really packs a punch. Thanks for joining us Muriel!

RATING: *****

Interesting Facts:

Made in 1974 film starring Elizabeth Taylor.

UP NEXT: The Sea of Fertility by Yukio Mishima

No comments: