The Tricks of the Trade : Book Review

"The Tricks of the Trade" by Dario Fo is an enthralling and amusing memoir that provides readers with an intimate glimpse into the captivating world of theater. As a renowned playwright and performer, Fo takes us on an extraordinary journey through his eventful career, sharing captivating anecdotes and insightful observations that captivate and enlighten.

Fo's writing style is vibrant, engaging, and perfectly captures the essence of his energetic and charismatic personality. From his humble beginnings as an struggling artist to his meteoric rise to international fame, Fo's storytelling keeps readers enthralled from start to finish. His ability to seamlessly combine humor with thought-provoking social commentary is truly extraordinary.

One of the standout features of this memoir is Fo's candid portrayal of the challenges and joys of working in the theater industry. He delves into the intricacies of writing and staging plays, allowing us to gain a deeper understanding of the creative process. Fo also offers a revealing look at the politics and bureaucracy that often pervade theatrical institutions, offering a unique and eye-opening perspective.

The book also provides us with glimpses into Fo's personal life, allowing us to witness his relationships with fellow artists and his own family. These personal anecdotes add depth to the narrative and enable readers to establish a more intimate connection with Fo. His passion for his craft and unwavering dedication to the art form shine through every page.

"The Tricks of the Trade" is an insightful and charming memoir that will undoubtedly resonate not only with theater enthusiasts, but also with anyone intrigued by the creative process and the captivating world of the performing arts. Fo's wit, wisdom, and charismatic storytelling make this book a must-read for both fans of his work and newcomers eager to explore the fascinating realm of theater.

What are readers saying?

The reception of Dario Fo's "The Tricks of the Trade" has been varied among readers, with opinions on its content ranging widely. In general, the book has obtained a rating of 3.57 out of 5 stars, indicating that readers' views are diverse.

Many readers lauded Fo's clever writing style and engrossing storytelling. They found the book highly entertaining and praised Fo's skill in intertwining comedy with political commentary. These readers appreciated the satirical nature of the book, which shed light on various social and political issues. They regarded Fo's ability to approach serious topics with humor as a captivating and thought-provoking aspect of the read.

Conversely, some readers felt that the book lacked a coherent plot and was challenging to follow. They deemed the humor to be contrived and believed that the political commentary overshadowed the story itself. These readers struggled to identify a clear direction within the narrative and were disappointed with the overall structure of the book.

Moreover, opinions regarding the translation of Fo's work were also mixed. Some readers found the translation to be seamless, commending the translator's aptitude in capturing Fo's distinct style. On the other hand, others felt that the translation failed to convey the humor and subtleties of the original text, making it difficult to fully engage with the book.

Certain readers highlighted particular stories or chapters that they found exceptionally well-written or insightful. These sections showcased Fo's talent for seamlessly blending comedy with social commentary, covering topics such as corruption, bureaucracy, and the complexities of human nature.

TheTricksOfTheTrade BookLovers MustRead