The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay
**** By Michael Chabon. I was surprised that Chabon, a relatively young author, would win the Pulitzer Prize for his, what, fifth or sixth book. Whatever my expectations, it's worthwhile, and I recommend it highly.
The story follows Sam Clay and Joe Kavalier, two cousins. Sam is from Brooklyn, Joe from Prague. Sammy has the gift of gab, Joe is a brilliant visual artist. They start making comic books together. From that starting point, we follow them and some elements of the rest of the world through WWII-era Europe and the US. The story is alternately told in documentary and narrative styles, and occasionally will send you running for your dictionary. Overall, it's interesting and a joy to read.
One warning: the first twenty pages or so are very verbose, but don't let that discourage you. The language may seem impenetrable at first, but it clears up very quickly into very readable prose.
Go get this book. If you send me a copy before we leave California, I can even get it signed for you; I know the author's stepfather!
Posted by Joe on April 27, 2002 09:48 PM