"The Casual Vacancy" - JK Rowling.
Full disclaimer - I grew up on Harry Potter. I have read and reread all of those books. And, I have idolized Rowling for creating the Harry universe. So, I was really apprehensive about the idea of her writing a "grown-up" book.
The plot really interested me. It's about the politics of a small-town and what happens when a member of the community dies, leaving a vacant spot on the Council. I love politics and I especially love reading about them.
At first, I felt like Rowling was trying to impress my age range. It felt very, "LOOK AT ME GUYS, I CAN SAY 'FUCK' TOO!" And the weird details about the boy's balls and hiding his erection. The only phallic object I want Rowling talking about is a wand. At first, her use of "fuck" was jarring and it took up most of a few pages. As the book continued, it died down and didn't feel so forced anymore.
I also like how she includes Facebook. One of the characters knew what someone's boyfriend looked like because of Facebook. We all do some Facebook lurking and it was refreshing to see in literature. When I told my friend about this part, he said, "You're right, Rowling is trying too hard. 'Look guys! I get the internet!'" At least there's no Instagramming.
I couldn't put it down. It felt fast paced. She moved seamlessly between the different characters and I kept wanting her to go back and address her previous bombshells.
I read it because it was J.K. Rowling, but I enjoyed it on its own. I highly recommend the book.
1/50 - 23 for 23 #3Labels: books, reviews
