Housekeeping by Marilynne Robinson

Robinson’s Gilead was one of my favourite novels of the last decade. I found it had some of the best prose of modern literary works. I knew I had to read Robinson’s other works.

When I started this novel, I had a feeling I would not love it quite as much as Gilead which is a tall order for any modern novel. I did really enjoy the writing though. Robinson’s unique storytelling and voice runs through this more darker and somber novel.

There was an ethereal quality to it that reminded me of fantasy novels by Neil Gaiman. The characters in this novel are not exactly the most relateable for me, but Ruth the narrator is a character the reader can sympathize with.

All in all, I enjoyed the prose immensely, but I would not recommend this novel for those who dislike literary fiction or who do not already like Gilead.

Read March 28-29, 2015.

2 thoughts on “Housekeeping by Marilynne Robinson

  • Geoff W

    I think I’m going to have to re-read Gilead in 10-15 years to see if my opinion has changed. I really really did not like it.

    Reply
    • athena (Post author)

      Hi Geoff! Maybe Robinson and Gilead just aren’t your thing? Some books move others and leave me cold too. Thanks for the comment though! Cheers.

      Reply

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