There's only one Riddley Walker! (Riddley Walker - Russell Hoban)

Member Name: RWadeson

Product:	Riddley Walker - Russell Hoban
Date:	07/11/09 (31 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Unusual, thoughtful brilliance

Disadvantages: None

This is a very unusual novel, written in non-standard English and set in a rather dismal post-apocalyptic future! I am a massive fan of this, but would only recommend you read this if you are a regular reader and enjoy a challenge.

It is quite hard to get into; if you've ever tried to read an Irvine Welsh novel, you will understand why. Reading a dialect slows your reading speed and understanding significantly! If you don't mind re-reading the odd sentence then this book is for you!

Riddley Walker is the central character and we follow his thoughts as he goes about his life. The description of his interactions and feelings is endearing (if not slightly odd!); he comes across as straightforward and innocent.

As you read, you discover more about their way of life, which has been compared to Iron Age Britain, and all the weird and wonderfu traditions and celebrations that they have. In particular, the portrayal of Punch and Judy (The Eusa Show) as a story-telling form in their society, is both unusual and familiar.

A unique twist on Britain's future 2000 years after nuclear war. A must-read for anyone interested in language, history, anthropology or a damn good book!

Summary: A unique novel on post-apocalyptic Britain