The Feral Detective - Jonathan Lethem

Fiction

Rating: 7.5/10

I knew I was going to like this book when I came across the expression “Chuck you Farley”. An oldie but a damn fine goodie that one! I pledge here and now to bring it back in 2019.

This book is an offering from the author of Motherless Brooklyn, one of my all time favourites. Laden with his trademark gift of language and laconic wit I recommend a careful read so as not to miss any of the subtleties.

I would be hard pressed to try and summarize a plot for you so I’m not even going to try. Part mystery, part love story, part journey to discovery, self and otherwise, it’s not any one thing. It’s tender and turbulent, infuriating and enthralling and like nothing you’ve read before. Surely that distinction alone is reason enough to give it a chance.

Footnote: The Trump election acted as a backdrop for the main female character seeking a new purpose in life. While it’s referred to very minimally, I found it annoying. Go figure.