This is one of the strangest, most unexpected books I've ever read. For starters, I thought it was going to be set in medieval times like Gregory's other novels. Boy, was I wrong!
After my last three reading endeavors, I wanted to pick something light. I've only read one other Gregory novel, The Queen's Fool, which I really enjoyed. I intended to borrow The Other Boleyn Girl from the library and then see the movie, but clearly other library patrons had the same idea, because the book has been taken out for several weeks now. So, I grabbed Zelda's Cut off the shelf instead.
I'll say this: I was never bored. It is a page-turner. The main character, Isobel, is a "literary writer" who writes for the sake of art and form, which is morally satisfying but not financially lucrative. Isobel supports herself and her chronically ill husband with her writing, and money is very tight. To earn extra income fast, Isobel and her literary agent secretly re-create Isobel as Zelda Vere, who writes stories that are unapologetically provocative and sexual. Zelda's novels are an instant hit, earning Isobel hundreds of thousands of dollars. The novel follows Isobel and her alter-ego Zelda through twists and turns of leading a double-life, which left me wondering how the story would resolve. When it ended, I was hoping for more resolution. Still, the way Gregory plays with the idea of "identity" is interesting and thought-provoking. I won't say much more than that in case anyone is interested in reading it themselves.
Zelda's Cut is great pick if you're heading to the beach or on vacation. Just don't leave it around where the kids might find it - If this book were a movie, some of the scenes would have to be cut for it to secure an R rating!
My next review: A Widow for One Year (John Irving)
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
Can't wait to hear your thoughts on A Widow For One Year - won't prejudice you except to say I thought it was an interesting read.
Post a Comment