The Bus Driver Who Wanted To Be God : Book Review

"The Bus Driver Who Wanted to Be God" by Etgar Keret is an enthralling collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of the human experience with a touch of absurdity and dark humor. Keret's ability to seamlessly blend reality and fantasy in his narratives creates a captivating and thought-provoking read.

What sets this collection apart is Keret's concise and precise writing style, where every word carries weight. Despite the brevity of the stories, they leave a lasting impact on the reader. Through vivid imagery and imaginative storytelling, Keret creates a surreal atmosphere that grabs the reader's attention from the very beginning. His ability to explore profound aspects of the human condition with both depth and brevity showcases his remarkable talent.

The strength of this collection lies in the diverse range of characters and situations portrayed. From a bus driver yearning for a more meaningful life to a woman engaging in a relationship with a dolphin, each character is flawed yet relatable in their own unique way. Keret adeptly depicts the complexity of emotions and the struggles of these characters, immersing the reader in their worlds.

Another remarkable aspect of this book is the underlying theme of finding meaning in the mundane. Keret demonstrates how even the smallest moments can have a profound impact on our lives, whether it be a failed love affair or a chance encounter on a bus. These unexpected and surreal scenarios challenge conventional perceptions, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives.

"The Bus Driver Who Wanted to Be God" is a captivating and thought-provoking collection of short stories that offers a fresh perspective on the human experience. Keret's poignant and humorous writing style makes this book a must-read for fans of contemporary fiction and those interested in exploring the intricacies of human nature.

What are readers saying?

"The Bus Driver Who Wanted To Be God" by Etgar Keret has garnered a range of opinions from readers. Many appreciate Keret's unique writing style and his talent for conveying profound insights through his short stories. They find his stories to be thought-provoking, entertaining, and often infused with humor. However, there are those who feel that the stories lack depth and substance, and that they appear too fragmented and random.

Some reviewers have commended Keret for his ability to capture the complexities of human relationships and emotions. They admire his use of surreal elements to explore themes of love, loss, and identity. The stories are often described as touching, poignant, and profound, with a hint of dark humor. Readers also appreciate how Keret manages to evoke empathy for his characters, even when their circumstances are absurd and unconventional.

On the contrary, some readers find the brevity of Keret's stories to be a hindrance, as it prevents them from fully engaging with the characters and their experiences. They suggest that the fragmented and random nature of the stories can make it difficult to follow the narrative or connect with the underlying themes.

Overall, while opinions on "The Bus Driver Who Wanted To Be God" are mixed, it appears to resonate with readers who appreciate Etgar Keret's unique and imaginative storytelling. Many applaud his ability to convey profound insights in short, often surreal stories. However, those who prefer more substantial narratives may find the fragmented nature and brevity of the stories to be a drawback. Ultimately, whether readers enjoy this collection will depend on their personal affinity for unconventional storytelling and willingness to embrace the whimsical and absurd.