Assessment:
Plot: The idea for the story is a unique and engaging one, especially when the focus becomes an ethical one. However, certain character motivations remain unclear and under-explored.
Prose/Style: The prose is quite simple, as is the vocabulary. However, the strengthening of the plot toward the novel’s close certainly makes the book more gripping for all readers.
Originality: Although novels that take place in the aftermath of World War II are common, the unusual circumstances concerning the two families here and what ultimately unfolds for them allows this work to often shine.
Character Development: The character of Bill is finely drawn, as is the character of Mr. Durban, Bill's father's friend and Bill's surrogate father. The character of Kenneth is experienced through other individual’s words and reactions; as a result, readers may feel disconnected from him.
Date Submitted: May 31, 2020
Post-war London is brought to vibrant life—all the way from the rationing of food and coal to the lack of clothes and shoes. Further to this, Ms Minett has created an engaging and vulnerable protagonist, a young boy who struggles constantly to please his distant parents when they so obviously prefer the cuckoo—the relative who has invaded the Wilson home. Inevitably, the infected relationship between the cousins comes to a head. The fall-out is spectacular and will forever change Bill’s life.
Ms Minett is an accomplished writer, combining tight dialogue with vivid descriptions.
