Changes

The whole book feels very well thought out. After the alternating pattern of the first half, the second half follows Owen directly in his adult life, and this uninterrupted vision of Owen's life is both moving and wonderfully descriptive. Owen is most at home in the countryside, and as he escapes the city his knowledge and love of nature are delicately portrayed, as is his love for his children. As I said, my only issue with the book was my uncertainty as to what exactly happens at the end. The style seems to shift slightly into something more magical, more spiritual, and it made me question the truth of everything that had preceded it. Perhaps this was intentional, and it certainly made me think long and hard for some time after the book was closed. I think that ''In the Place of Fallen Leaves'' is still my favourite book of his so far, but this one is definitely worth a read if you enjoy lyrical, character-driven stories.

Another well-written, character-full novel that you might enjoy is [[Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger]] or for more moody, lyrical writing try [[Miss Smilla's Feeling For Snow by Peter Hoeg]].