"A Disorder Peculiar to the Country" by Ken Kalfus is a gripping and darkly comedic tale set against the backdrop of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The story follows Joyce and Marshall Bloom, a married couple on the verge of divorce, as they navigate their crumbling relationship amidst the chaos of this tragic event. Kalfus expertly weaves satire, tragedy, and political commentary together, resulting in a thought-provoking and deeply engaging read.
What sets this novel apart is its alternating perspectives between Joyce and Marshall. This allows the reader to gain insight into their individual experiences and contrasting viewpoints. Kalfus skillfully captures their bitterness, resentment, and paranoia, painting a vivid picture of a marriage in disarray. As the events of 9/11 unfold, their personal troubles are magnified, and they find themselves trapped in a spiral of existential dread.
Kalfus's writing style is sharp and witty, injecting humor into even the darkest moments. This dark humor serves as a coping mechanism for the characters, bringing levity to the heavy subject matter. The juxtaposition of humor and tragedy creates an engaging narrative tension that keeps the reader hooked from beginning to end.
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One of the notable aspects of the book is Kalfus's exploration of the post-9/11 political climate. He delves into the rise of nationalism, xenophobia, and heightened security measures, offering a nuanced examination of the far-reaching consequences of the attacks. Through his characters, Kalfus provides a scathing critique of the American Dream and the disillusionment that followed this catastrophic event.
Overall, "A Disorder Peculiar to the Country" is a powerful and thought-provoking read that skillfully delves into the complexities of marriage, politics, and the aftermath of 9/11. Kalfus's masterful storytelling and thought-provoking narrative make this book a must-read for those seeking a unique perspective on this pivotal moment in history.
What are readers saying?
"A Disorder Peculiar to the Country" by Ken Kalfus has garnered a range of opinions from readers. The novel delves into the lives of Joyce and Marshall, a married couple amidst a turbulent divorce amid the backdrop of the September 11th attacks and its aftermath.
Some readers lauded Kalfus for his inventive premise and distinctive writing style. They found the book to be thought-provoking, appreciating the author's skill in balancing the personal struggles of the characters with the larger historical events unfolding. Kalfus' adept use of dark humor and exploration of complex themes, such as love, marriage, and the impact of political turmoil on individual lives, were also highly regarded.
However, there were also readers who encountered difficulties with the book. Some found the characters unappealing and struggled to connect with them. They felt the plot wandered at times and lacked a cohesive narrative thread. A few reviewers also felt that the political commentary was heavy-handed and took away from the overall story.
Despite the divided reception, many readers agreed that the book was thought-provoking and exemplified Kalfus' talent as a writer. They commended his meticulous research and incorporation of real-world events into the story. Some readers specifically praised his portrayal of the post-9/11 era, finding it poignant and capturing the sense of anxiety and uncertainty prevalent during that time.
To summarize, "A Disorder Peculiar to the Country" by Ken Kalfus has received varying reviews. While some readers admired the book for its unique premise, thought-provoking themes, and skillful writing, others struggled with the unlikeable characters and disjointed plot. Nevertheless, many readers recognized the novel as an insightful exploration of love, marriage, and the influence of political events on personal lives.
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