Christie Malry's Own Double-Entry : Book Review

"Christie Malry's Own Double-Entry" by B.S. Johnson is a captivating and distinctive novel that follows the life of its main character, Christie Malry, in 1970s London. The book explores Malry's frustrations with societal and economic structures, which ultimately leads him on a path of retribution.

The novel delves into Malry's growing discontent and disillusionment with the world around him. Johnson creatively employs the concept of double-entry bookkeeping to depict Malry's longing for fairness and equilibrium in his own life. Malry's endeavors to apply this principle to his personal relationships and interactions with society drive him toward acts of disobedience and vengeance.

Johnson's writing style is bold and unconventional. He plays with form and structure, employing various narrative techniques like visually representing financial transactions and incorporating typographic quirks. This avant-garde approach deepens the story, highlighting Malry's struggle to find meaning and coherence in a world that feels unjust and chaotic.

The development of the characters in "Christie Malry's Own Double-Entry" is skillfully executed. Malry is portrayed as a complex and multi-faceted character, torn between his thirst for justice and his descent into madness. The supporting characters also leave a lasting impact, as their flaws and idiosyncrasies add layers of complexity to the narrative.

In essence, "Christie Malry's Own Double-Entry" explores themes of rebellion, power, and the inherent inequalities within society. B.S. Johnson's novel challenges traditional storytelling and prompts readers to question their own role within societal systems. This thought-provoking and innovative work is a must-read for those seeking a unique and introspective literary experience.

What are readers saying?

"Christie Malry's Own Double-Entry" by B.S. Johnson is a unique and thought-provoking book that has received mixed reviews from readers. Some reviewers found the book to be a brilliant satire on society and capitalism. They appreciated how Johnson used the concept of double-entry bookkeeping as a metaphor to critique the exploitative nature of modern life. These readers found the protagonist, Christie Malry, relatable and compelling as he rebels against societal norms through his own form of accounting. They praised Johnson's writing style and his ability to seamlessly blend humor and social commentary.

On the other hand, some readers struggled to connect with the story and characters in "Christie Malry's Own Double-Entry." They found the narrative to be disjointed and confusing, making it difficult to fully grasp the underlying themes. These individuals were less receptive to Johnson's experimental writing techniques, such as the use of footnotes and unconventional punctuation, which they felt detracted from the overall reading experience.

The abrupt ending of the book also divided opinions. Some felt it left them wanting more and desired a more conclusive resolution to Christie Malry's story. Others, however, appreciated the open-ended nature of the ending as it allowed for personal interpretation and reflection on the themes presented throughout the book.

Despite the varying opinions, most readers agreed that "Christie Malry's Own Double-Entry" is a thought-provoking and challenging read. They acknowledged Johnson's use of unconventional narrative techniques and exploration of societal issues as important contributions to literature. The book encourages readers to question the systems and structures that govern their lives and consider the consequences of individual actions within these frameworks.

Overall, "Christie Malry's Own Double-Entry" is a polarizing book, with some considering it a thought-provoking masterpiece and others struggling to fully engage with it. It requires an open mind and a willingness to grapple with its complex themes and unconventional storytelling.

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