Laraine F. reviewed America America on 10/11/2008 + 3 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

Sometimes Ethan Canin's writing is almost as good as Philip Roth's. Like Roth, he has the ability to write rich, graceful, not-didiactic sentences that make you feel and think at the same time. In some ways, he is better than Roth is at creating a narrative that hangs together and makes sense. In this novel, Canin tries, mostly successfully, to talk about America's class society and the men, and sorry it is men in the story, who escape it and, in some cases, alter it forever. The focus is on a Ted Kennedy like-politician, who does enormous good, but manages through his selfishness and personal excess to bring down himself and the wealthy and liberal family who supports his run for president.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details