"Happiness" by Aminatta Forna.
An interestingly complex novel, the story arcs interweave the relationship of a natural scientist and a trauma psychologist.
The setting is mainly London, and Cath chose the book partly because of the London setting, having walked through the very scenarios described.
It is a complex novel with quite strange characters, unclear timelines and transient locations for the two main characters.
The knowledge base of animal – human behaviours was excellent, brilliantly integrated into the story.
But the book is more than good nature writing, the story arcs have multiple interlocking threads which hold the reader as the novel progresses.
The book engendered an unusual consistency of response from the club; members generally enjoyed the book and received it well.
However, anyone hoping for a simple response to the book’s title was disappointed.
Various detailed comments from club members were noted including:
On the plus side
- Her life observations were very good
- Loved the landscape descriptions NB. approved by Steve, our resident expert on London
- Wanted more about foxes
Negative comments
- Not sure about the love affair
- There were perhaps too many threads
- Took some reading
- Italicised parts physically difficlt to read
Interesting comments
- Was the title chosen to sell the book?
- "Attila" - really?
- Violence is always there in society, war just gives it permission
Doorly score: 3.7
PC. 2023
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