I was looking forward to reading T.C. Boyle's new book "The Women" about Frank Lloyd Wright, especially after thoroughly enjoying "Loving Frank" by Nancy Horan. What a disappointment! The first third of the book is all rantings in the 1st preson by his nutty second wife, Miriam. What an unpleasant character! And, Wright comes off as the thoroughly selfish individual he undoubtedly was. There is also a 1st person narrative by his mistress then 3rd wife, Oliganna. The tone of the book, even as narrated by a Japanese apprentice, is overwrought and shrill. We are supposed to discuss this in our next book club meeting, but I'm going to suggest a change. I don't see how this book can get any better! I normally like Boyle's style, and enjoyed "Drop City", "Kinsey", and especially "Tortilla Curtain," so this is really an unpleasant surprise. Boyle lives in one of the first homes in the Western US designed by Wright, and has spent a lot of time and money restoring the house.
I give up!
By glendamadridSun, 09/20/2009 - 19:23
I was looking forward to reading T.C. Boyle's new book "The Women" about Frank Lloyd Wright, especially after thoroughly enjoying "Loving Frank" by Nancy Horan. What a disappointment! The first third of the book is all rantings in the 1st preson by his nutty second wife, Miriam. What an unpleasant character! And, Wright comes off as the thoroughly selfish individual he undoubtedly was. There is also a 1st person narrative by his mistress then 3rd wife, Oliganna. The tone of the book, even as narrated by a Japanese apprentice, is overwrought and shrill. We are supposed to discuss this in our next book club meeting, but I'm going to suggest a change. I don't see how this book can get any better! I normally like Boyle's style, and enjoyed "Drop City", "Kinsey", and especially "Tortilla Curtain," so this is really an unpleasant surprise. Boyle lives in one of the first homes in the Western US designed by Wright, and has spent a lot of time and money restoring the house.
--
Glenda