Greg chose The Beach by Alex Garland. Book club night was again held out in Papakura at the Pryor residence. Present: Greg, Laura, Rebekah, Paul, Marnie, Georgia, Chez, Anne, Nicole and Jonathan.
The Beach evening was thoroughly enjoyable. Conversation was thorough and lively due to the contrasting feelings held toward the novel. Everyone had read the book too, which was conducive to engaging discussion. Unfortunately, Paul had not quite finished it – so the rest of the group took great pleasure in spoiling the ending for him! Members more critical of the book were Marnie, Jonathan and Paul. They felt that the novel exemplified a typical ‘first novel’ of a young talented writer. Others such as Georgia, Rebekah and Laura were wholeheartedly backing the book – all who gave the book an A+ grade. Marnie, Jonathan and Paul only gave it a ‘B range’ grade. Paul and Marnie believed that Garland had focussed on a few literary techniques and over-extended them.
Most people found Jed to be their favourite character. The character with most influence was Sal. This highlighted to us how none of the female characters were particularly appealing. The members noted that many of the authors we have read were mildly misogynistic!
Overall, this to be one of our best book club nights.
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