How to Build a Boat by Elaine Feeney (202 Anna)

 

How to Build a Boat by Elaine Feeney follows Jamie O'Neill, a bright and sensitive 13-year-old boy growing up in rural Ireland after the death of his mother. Living with his father and grandmother, Jamie becomes fascinated by the idea that it might be possible to bring the dead back to life through science. His obsession leads him to build a machine in an attempt to reconnect with his mother. At school, Jamie forms an important bond with two teachers, Tess and Tadhg, who are each struggling with their own disappointments and uncertainties. Together, their lives become intertwined as they navigate grief, hope, loneliness, and the search for connection.

In the discussion, we mostly agreed that the story line with Tess was not necessary and that Jamie's story was most interesting. The writing was lyrical, but seemed indulgent. Having said that a number of us loved the book and a few didn't!

 

Marks out of 10 between 4 - 9

 

Words used to describe it: no depth, tender, interconnection, contrived, insightful, hard work, disjointed characters, fascinatingly written

Next Book

The Correspondent by Virginai Evans

Next Meeting 

at Rowena's

15th October