Extremely Loud . . . Incredibly Moving
I find myself avoiding books about 9/11. It just still feels too raw even all these years later; however Jonathan Safran Foer’s book really was a cathartic experience. Foer is one of my most favorite writers because his compassionate soul comes through his work. His first novel Everything is Illuminated is an example of how one can touch us with humor. In his latest novel I laughed, cried, and just adored the nine year old narrator who was was as complex as Holden Caulfield is in The Catcher in the Rye. The film is coming out any day now with Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock, so try to read the book before if you can.
Another favorite that centers around New York City is Let The Great World Spins by Colum McCann. The beautiful story-telling creates a Joycean like world where the characters are all connected in a brave, expansive way. I think this may be my most favorite in a long time. The myriad of characters get under your skin and stay with you.
