One of my favourite books in modern fiction. Irving is a talented and unique writer - often quirky but he never ceases to entertain and amuse. This to me, is the best one but is not as well-known as his others so would encourage any fans to read this. This is essentially a family saga - but not in the traditional sense! it is narrated by John, one of the Berry family so we learn about all events through his eyes, probably one of the more down to earth characters. Irving makes the characters complicated and often a bit dark. He almost borders on using black humour but there are heart-warming moments as well. if you are a fan of Irving you begin ...  Read the complete review

This story is absolutely fantastic and it manages to capture the magic of Irvings other classics. I think this book started well, it lost something in the middle with the early years, but the end was wonderful, and so typically heart wrenching. Finally, the author stands alone in development of colourful characters. Here we have prostitutes, quarterbacks, writers, terrorists, an elusive man in a white jacket, midgets, and not forgetting a talking bear. Put simply this book has everything and even though it may not be up there with some of his other work it is still a brilliant read. ...  Read the complete review

When I read the blurb about this book I thought it didn't sound that great but I'd run out of books to read and it was the last on my bookcase so I went for it. The book centres around a family and charts their escapades as the children grow up. Its narated by the middle child John and you begin to share his thoughts on the family and all the events that surround them. Its written in a very easy to read style and has some excellent humourous touches, at times I was having to stifle a laugh whilst travelling on the tube. The plot is quite simple but mainly reveolves around the people, the characteristaion is fantastic and I found myself really caring ...  Read the complete review