I read The Last Chairlift back when it was published and also enjoyed it a lot. I thought the screenplay sections were tedious, but the emeritus jokes kept making me laugh. I was surprised by a few things; one, that Irving in now his advanced age has kept his distinct authorial voice. If you picked up this book not knowing he was the author (not sure how that would be possible), after reading a handful of pages I would guess it as Irving. My other surprise was that even though the story seemed uneven, it did go by quite fast, was enjoyable, and I think I gave it on Goodreads 4 stars as well. The ghosts seemed to not quite fit in with the rest of the story; so I did not really get that part of it. But so much of the rest of it brought me back to Garp in a way that it almost felt anachronistic. Good for John Irving though, and may he write several more novels before he is through!
Yes, his voice is his own for sure. That's what keeps readers coming back I think. He just gets people and relationships I think; he makes them feel so real, with all their flaws and insecurities and strengths. His characters know who they are and they are unapologetic about it. I should read Garp again-it's been many years since I read it for the first time.
Found this video at the right time! Got this book as a gift from Christmas and now I can't wait to read it. Great review 👍🏼
I note the Doctor Who scarf. Well-played, mate.
Good catch! My daughter crocheted it for me for a present last year. I love it!
I read The Last Chairlift back when it was published and also enjoyed it a lot. I thought the screenplay sections were tedious, but the emeritus jokes kept making me laugh. I was surprised by a few things; one, that Irving in now his advanced age has kept his distinct authorial voice. If you picked up this book not knowing he was the author (not sure how that would be possible), after reading a handful of pages I would guess it as Irving. My other surprise was that even though the story seemed uneven, it did go by quite fast, was enjoyable, and I think I gave it on Goodreads 4 stars as well. The ghosts seemed to not quite fit in with the rest of the story; so I did not really get that part of it. But so much of the rest of it brought me back to Garp in a way that it almost felt anachronistic. Good for John Irving though, and may he write several more novels before he is through!
Yes, his voice is his own for sure. That's what keeps readers coming back I think. He just gets people and relationships I think; he makes them feel so real, with all their flaws and insecurities and strengths. His characters know who they are and they are unapologetic about it. I should read Garp again-it's been many years since I read it for the first time.