The Testament of Mary by Colm Tóibín

I’ve had this in my library pile for awhile. I am not sure why I put off reading it because it’s a novella more than a novel.

The only other time I’ve read Tóibín was his translation of Beowulf. With that and this novel, I can’t deny he is talented and writes well. However, he is one of those authors whose prose I respect and deem talented, but I don’t find his characters particularly engaging.

I did like this book more as I read it because I’ve had an affinity for Mary since I was a child in Catholic school. I was not there long nor am I Catholic, but Mary’s always been a comforting and fascinating person from religion.

Since reading this book over a week, it’s left a better impression than when I read it. I think reinterpreting Biblical works is a great source for literary exploration. I support it especially by good writers such as Tóibín.

Read March 28, 2015.

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