The Slap - A must read!
August 16th 2009 04:32
I know I’ve been quiet for awhile, but I just had to get back to blogging and let everyone know how much I enjoyed The Slap by Christos Tsiolkas. Concentrated around a group of friends and a momentous moment when one of them takes it upon himself to slap anothers child, this is one of the most honest voices in Australian contemporary literature that I’ve read.
Through the eyes and inner most thoughts of eight characters, Tsiolkas gives the omniscient reader their versions of the incident and how it affects their lives and relationships. All the characters are completely believable, as is the situation they find themselves in. Some are more likeable than others, but they are all totally human in every way. There is a mix of cultures within the group that could be found in any of Australia’s major cities; Greek, Indian, Yugoslav and your average Aussie, which makes it all the more real and possible. From toddlers to teenagers to the elderly, The Slap connects the dots that form Australia’s society today.
But I think the real power behind this book is the social issues it tackles. Why do some people include violence in their lives? Marriage and infidelity … how can they survive together? Social status, why is it so important? What is life like for a teenager today? All these topics and a lot more are woven into an intense but totally enjoyable read that really musn’t be missed. If you’re only going to read one book this year, read this one.
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