by Nick Hornby
Rating: 3
Four complete strangers individually decide to toss themselves from the top of 'Topper's House' on December 31st. Interestingly, after meeting each other, they all decide not to commit suicide and start setting about 'what comes next.' What comes next is a mess.
Despite its somewhat morose premise, A Long Way Down is not a depressing book. It's meandering style and engaging (but bizarre) characters meld into an interesting disorganized narrative about the ups and downs of life. I think in some places the narrative is a little jarring, particularly when switching between the American narrative voice and the British ones. Still it was an interesting exploration of the subject. Surprisingly uplifting, Hornby reminds us that quality of life is a matter of perception. While I doubt I'll ever want to read this book again, I'm glad I put the time into it. It's not a bad thing to laugh at our dark sides now and again.
Recommended for people going through a rough time and people who've read too many gothic romances.
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