Manning matches a baffling mystery with an inventive premise, and her flawless prose ensures the reader stays invested throughout. Lovers of literary fiction won’t want to miss this intense and disquieting read.
KNOCK ON WOOD is told from seven points of view, and I enjoy varying POV—when it is done well. And Manning does it so beautifully, flowing seamlessly from one well-developed character to another.
Originally written twenty years ago as a stage play, KNOCK ON WOOD translates flawlessly to the written word. In fact, it translates so well that it is my favorite of Leslie Tall Manning’s works.
A deftly written, original, and inherently fascinating novel that features elements of 'magical realism', "Knock On Wood" showcases author Leslie Tall Manning's impressive and narrative driven storytelling talents. A fully entertaining and thought-provoking read, "Knock On Wood" is unreservedly recommended for both community and academic library Contemporary Literary Fiction collections.
Knock on Wood was a wonderful book. Billy had my heart from the beginning. The book made me feel so much for William. People were full of love or full of deceit. I was rooting for the man who had become more as he saw life. I very seldom read a book that stays with me after a few days. I am sure I will think of Billy/Willaim often. I will sing Leslie Tall Manning to everyone about Knock on Wood.
Knock on Wood, a screenplay turned into a full-length novel, is an emotionally stirring read. By narrating the story from the perspectives of different characters, Manning allows us a holistic viewpoint. She expertly uses Billy, William's teenage version hidden deep inside his psyche, to narrate his parts. The knowledge of the characters’ backstories makes them relatable and enables us to root for them. William’s long-cherished dreams of a normal life, so easily shattered by a cruel fate, remind us of life’s unpredictability. The gradual decline of Donald’s character evokes our pity. After some unexpected twists, Manning reveals the long-held secrets in a tense moment of climax. I would recommend this book to readers who appreciate dramatic contemporary fiction.
