I have a 100-page rule before putting a book down, and it’s drawing near…
Kesey’s writing is freaking gorgeous in it. The way he showed the original Kansas patriarch’s depression in terms of his inability to adapt to the ecology and environment of the PNW was amazing. I also love nonlinear storytelling when it’s done well, and is it ever. Kesey can switch the narrator and setting several times within a paragraph and it works.
BUT…I don’t like any of these characters or feel connected to their story in any way. It’s like the book’s trying to be East of Eden, but not succeeding. Also bothered that so far no woman character has been given agency or barely a name (except for Indian Jenny) – it’s like Kesey’s very progressive for the sixties in terms of free love and drugs, but pretty regressive as far as women actually mattering in the story as individuals.
Would love others’ perspective on the book!
by BillyDeeisCobra