(4 / 5)
I give pause every time I hear a book touted as “literary fiction”, my guard goes up and I usually find an excuse to shelve the book all the while promising myself that “its still on my to-read list”. Literary fiction for me is very polarizing, a few of my favorite books can be categorized as literary fiction, but I also have an unfortunate history of sampling other literary fiction that has left me empty, angry (that I invested so much time), and depressed. “Castle of Water” hits just the right note with what it’s author calls “fun brow”. Dane Hucklebridge set out to write a literary fiction novel that was also fun and even occasionally funny. In my opinion he has succeeded splendidly.
“Castle of Water” follows the two survivors of a small plane crash somewhere in the south pacific. They each successfully make their way to the same uncharted island where they have limited survival resources. The majority of the book details their rescue attempts, human weaknesses, self discovery, and ever changing relationship.
This book was a pure delight. Although I wasn’t particularly fond of either Barry or Sophie at the beginning I was increasingly endeared to them as they grew as characters. Barry’s spineless bumbling became altruistic optimism and Sohpie’s abrasive stubbornness morphed into determined resilience. Far before the end they were both dear friends of mine. The island also became an intimate player who’s character was just a memorable and distinctive as Barry and Sophie’s.
Other strengths of “Castle of Water” include it’s pain staking research, French/Tahitian feel, and cultural references. I particularly liked the Paul Gauguin aspect and felt it lent the book an appropriate grounding piece. This novel has art, humanity, hope, despair, and mostly importantly, heart.
I have to admit my pleasure from this book may have stemmed in part from the fact that I read it while on a cruise. Being surrounded by ocean day after day (not something I commonly experience in my home land locked state) lent this book a hint of reality that really heightened the experience. This novel is wonderful and can be enjoyed anywhere but should you have the chance to read this on a ship, I highly recommend it.
Violence: Mild Language: Medium Adult Content: Medium