Jonathan Franzen
2001
Around 570 pages
This is one of those novels that has a reputation bigger perhaps than it deserves. I'd much rather pick up something by Ian McEwan or Paul Auster than have to spend time with any of Franzen's characters. I still think it is deserves a place on the List, but it's not a favorite of mine.
The Corrections focuses on the Midwestern Lambert family. Alfred is the rigid patriarch who is has Parkinson's and dementia, and Enid is the typical passive aggressive and long suffering wife. Their three adult children Gary, Chip, and Denise are all struggling as well.
These are very real characters, a little too real. At some point, most of us have to deal with the depressing realities of aging parents or family drama. That's the kind of real life nightmare that we use novels to escape from. Reading about it is not an enjoyable experience, even if it is True as an art form.
So I have no criticism about the characterization or pacing, even though it's a pretty hefty novel. But personally I didn't feel like it was worth it to have my heart broken for these characters, as they were all unlikable and unsympathetic. I prefer other Franzen works over this.
RATING: ****-
Interesting Facts:
Won the 2001 National Book Award for Fiction.
Was a finalist for the 2002 Pulitzer Prize.
UP NEXT: Platform by Michel Houellebecq
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