Room: A Novel by Emma DonoghueMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Room is a wonderful story, told from the point of view of a 5 year old boy as he is introduced to the "real" world. His first five years were spent in an 11x11 foot room with his mother. His entire existence consisted of the items in the room and what his mother taught him. They did have some books to read, and watched some television. But, he did not realize all of those things he read about - trees, mountains, boys and girls, animals, friends, etc - were actually REAL. The only person he has ever seen besides his mother is Old Nick, and he has only seen him through the slats of Wardrobe where he hides when Old Nick visits.
His mother was abducted and has been held in the room for seven years. When they finally escape their confinement, there is a lot of adjustment for Jack and Ma. Jack tells their story in such a sweet, innocent way. Your heart just about breaks with some of his observations as he learns that Outside is much different than his life in Room.
I listened to this story on CD, and the different characters in the story are actually read by different people, so it is more like listening to a play than just a book. It was so refreshing to hear the voice of Jack, as it sounds just like a five year old.
View all my reviews
You are making me want to read this book. But is it a real tear jerker? I have a 5 year old boy :)
ReplyDeleteDebbie - it is a great story and I highly recommend the book. Even though it is about a 5 year old boy, I really do not feel as though it is a tear jerker. It is more that you see things and understand them as Jack is seeing them. Actually, it is a very uplifting story. Give it a try, and let me know if you like it.
ReplyDelete