A very British writer (Magnus Mills in general)

Member Name: bruffyboy

Product:	Magnus Mills in general
Date:	02/06/09 (16 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: easy to read

Disadvantages: a tad dull

If you've read my reviews of his books, you'll know how I came across Magnus Mills. As an English teacher, people are always lending me books. It seems to be some kind of challenge: read them if you dare. I've read a good half a dozen novels in the last few months, but nothing like Mills' work. The guy who leant them to me came in with the preface 'this guy was a bus driver 'til he was 50, then wrote. His books are funny'.

I have now read two of Mills' 3 novels, and see a lot of similarities between them. Let me explain the main characteristics of his work, and you can see if you think you'd like them.

First off, he writes about British life. Often with a rural setting, always recognisable, he writes about normal people with normal lives. They go to the pub, they get into relationships. Even in three to see the king, his last novel (with a weird topic), the characters are still very British.

Secondly, he is a master at creating tension. He writes plain, prosaic texts that somehow get under your skin and make you wonder what is going to happen. I read his last book in one day, which is testament to the way he makes you want to read on.

Thirdly, his books are a tad dull. Very little happens, yet they are still very enjoyable and ultimately interesting books. Again, this all comes down to this subtle tension he's such a master at.

Fourthly, his books are short. The last was just 160 pages long, so they're quick and easy reads, ideal for a train journey or perhaps a short holiday.
Lastly, they are character studies. He exposes the stupidity of the way we live, and causes us to question what we do and why we do it.

All in all, Mills is a writer I quite enjoy now. I wouldn't say he's one of the best, but I would certainly pick up a new book when it came out.

Summary: up to you