A book that i've remembered for 11 years! (Behind the Scenes at the Museum - Kate Atkinson)

Member Name: haylourom

Product:	Behind the Scenes at the Museum - Kate Atkinson
Date:	27/08/09 (6 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Unconventional and interesting

Disadvantages: Not a traditional read

I read this book 11 years ago and I still remember it and recommend it to friends - that to me is the best indication of a good book!

A friend recommended I read this book and i'll admit I wasn't that enthusiastic originally (I tend to be one of these people that finds an author they like and sticks to it). However, after the first couple of paragraphs I was hooked and got through the book amazingly quickly. The characterisation in this book is excellent and I think what kept me gripped was the way the book allows the reader to jump into the mind of different characters at different points. This means that you are always seeing the story from a different perspective and never get bored. The characterisation is also extremely powerful and stays with you long after you have closed the book. One word of warning though - this book is not convential or traditional in plot or storyline - An element of confusion runs throughout the novel and whilst this is what made the book more interesting to me I think it might be quite frustrating if what you are looking for is a straightforward storyline!

It was when I chose to study this book as part of my English Literature A level that I found that it also goes deeper than it appears on first reading. For those that like literature you will find that it is actually littered with literary references to things such as Shakespeare's plays. After reading this book I went onto read other books by the same author and whilst her writing is clever and enjoyable I do feel that her novels are all very similar. Therefore I would say there is only a real need to read one of her novels and out of all of them this is the best of her novels.

Summary: Unique, gripping and powerful read