Barry Stewart Levy's Blog, page 18
May 7, 2018
Book Review #3
After the Circus
by Patrick Modiano
I really wanted to like this book. It's very French and a fairly fast read but unfortunately not a very compelling one. The characters are not as mysterious as the author would have us believe and are paper thin. Very little of consequence happens, though there are moments of tension and suspense. Gisele, the would-be femme fatale, is simply not all that interesting. The book, itself, proceeds with a kind of episodic, dreamlike logic, told from the point of view of Jean, the eighteen-year-old narrator, who also recalls the events as a young adult. But the circumstances carry little weight and lack drama. To use a word Jean refers to when describing his emotions and experiences, it's all too "vague." And the ending is as abrupt and ambiguous as it is disappointing.
by Patrick Modiano
I really wanted to like this book. It's very French and a fairly fast read but unfortunately not a very compelling one. The characters are not as mysterious as the author would have us believe and are paper thin. Very little of consequence happens, though there are moments of tension and suspense. Gisele, the would-be femme fatale, is simply not all that interesting. The book, itself, proceeds with a kind of episodic, dreamlike logic, told from the point of view of Jean, the eighteen-year-old narrator, who also recalls the events as a young adult. But the circumstances carry little weight and lack drama. To use a word Jean refers to when describing his emotions and experiences, it's all too "vague." And the ending is as abrupt and ambiguous as it is disappointing.
Book Review #2
2012: The Return of Quetzalcoatl
by Daniel POinchbeck
In this very well researched book, Pinchbeck draws upon Stonehenge, quantum physics, alien visitations, crop circles, the use of psychotropic drugs and the Mayan prophecies, etc., to present his illuminating and ultimately unsettling case that our world as we know it is on the brink of collapse (terrorism, ecological catastrophes, economic ruin, etc.) and that we are at the dawn of a new age where the only way we can save our planet and its future generations is by raising our collective spiritual consciousness. It's a fascinating read and an important wake-up call.
by Daniel POinchbeck
In this very well researched book, Pinchbeck draws upon Stonehenge, quantum physics, alien visitations, crop circles, the use of psychotropic drugs and the Mayan prophecies, etc., to present his illuminating and ultimately unsettling case that our world as we know it is on the brink of collapse (terrorism, ecological catastrophes, economic ruin, etc.) and that we are at the dawn of a new age where the only way we can save our planet and its future generations is by raising our collective spiritual consciousness. It's a fascinating read and an important wake-up call.
Book Review #1
****: The Anatomy of Melancholy
by Matthew Selwyn
This was a disappointing read. I really wanted to like this book, especially as it was written by a young and obviously talented author. The book, while very well written, is mostly a rant dealing with sex and violence, with allusions or direct references to "American Psycho," "Lolita," "A Clockwork Orange" and "Fight Club." I found approximately the first half of the book redundant. But then at some point nearing the second half I realized that the events depicted were being told by an unreliable narrator and that this young Brit was a self-deluded loser, unemployed, hanging out with his mates, having cyber sex with his "girlfriend" Lexi and living with Mum and Dad. He also was being counseled and given meds by a mental health therapist. I kept waiting for something, anything to happen, a revelation on his part, a breakdown, a breakthrough. But there was no plot. And there was no arc. And it was just more and more of the same: a young man with an inflated ego, spouting passages of sex, violence and nihilism. Too bad.
by Matthew Selwyn
This was a disappointing read. I really wanted to like this book, especially as it was written by a young and obviously talented author. The book, while very well written, is mostly a rant dealing with sex and violence, with allusions or direct references to "American Psycho," "Lolita," "A Clockwork Orange" and "Fight Club." I found approximately the first half of the book redundant. But then at some point nearing the second half I realized that the events depicted were being told by an unreliable narrator and that this young Brit was a self-deluded loser, unemployed, hanging out with his mates, having cyber sex with his "girlfriend" Lexi and living with Mum and Dad. He also was being counseled and given meds by a mental health therapist. I kept waiting for something, anything to happen, a revelation on his part, a breakdown, a breakthrough. But there was no plot. And there was no arc. And it was just more and more of the same: a young man with an inflated ego, spouting passages of sex, violence and nihilism. Too bad.
October 22, 2017
Reading in Hell's Kitchen
I almost didn't make it to last night's Hell's Kitchen Writers reading due to feeling under the weather. But I doctored myself up and had one of the best times I've ever had at one of these events. There were five authors including myself and Chocolate Waters, our hostess, who read some of her poems. We had a piano player playing standards prior to the event and there were lots of laughs throughout. All modesty aside, I offered a well received performance, reading the first three chapters from my book. People were very complimentary, and I really appreciated their response. I even sold one copy -- and sold a second to someone I met while waiting for the bus to take me home.
April 25, 2017
"Another Sad Loss"
Robert M. Pirsig, author of "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance," has died. I still can recall pouring over sentence after sentence, examining the schism between the rational and the metaphysical. And, yes, I still have my paperback copy of this seminal seventies book.
April 24, 2017
"Two Sad Goodbyes"
While reading "Poets & Writers" magazine, I was saddened to learn of the passing of two writers I very much admired: Frank Delaney and David Storey. Delaney was an author, journalist and broadcaster whose podcast, "Re: Joyce," which analyzed "Ulysses" literally line by line, was an absolute joy to listen to. Delaney's Irish wit and intelligence made deconstructing James Joyce a delight. David Storey's novel "This Sporting Life," which he adapted for the screen, garnered Oscar nominations for Richard Harris and Rachel Roberts. It is a tough, heartbreaker of a film that I loved. I also had the pleasure of seeing two of his plays on the Broadway stage: "Home" with John Gielgud and Ralph Richardson and "The Changing Room" with John Lithgow.
Two artists deserving of a lasting and restful peace.
Two artists deserving of a lasting and restful peace.
December 2, 2016
"Writer's Digest Review"
"European Son is a spare, elegant and rather disturbing literary accomplishment that provokes comparisons with French existentialist novels of the early 20th century."
-- Judge, 24th Annual Writer's Digest Self-Published Book Awards
-- Judge, 24th Annual Writer's Digest Self-Published Book Awards
November 30, 2016
"More Amazon Reviews"
"The Search"
By Richard Vinson on November 19, 2012
"European Son" chronicles a detached and rebellious young man as he searches for his identity through his manipulation of others. Each engaging encounter describes a narrow passage of his life and helps illuminate his conflicts which bring him nearer his transformation. This gripping novella delivers on many levels; it's both entertaining and thought provoking. Five stars!!!
Author's Comment: I wanted this to be a thought provoking read, and I'm glad it was for this reviewer.
5.0 out of 5 stars Shades of Seduction
By Sal Paradise on November 30, 2012
Love takes on many shapes in this novella. Triangles become squares and seem to interlock with other lines as the story unfolds. From its dysphoric main character, whose interaction with strangers becomes increasingly sinister, to its flashbacks of past events, foreshadowing a dramatic ending, this is certainly an engrossing read. The light poetry between scenes and pivotal moments really captures the mood of each chapter. I originally thought it was solely about love (or desire) and interwoven relationships, but I was pleasantly surprised. Indeed, I was reminded of The Stranger at times, frustrated at the diffidence of the main character who seems to wander through life, perhaps searching for the parental relationship he never had. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
Author's Comment: Camus' "The Stranger" was indeed an influence for me.
Intriguing Debut
By Glen Bob on January 25, 2013
Mr. Levy's first outing does for bisexuality what "Jaws" did for sharks ! It reads well,I ,in the parlance of a shark,devoured it in one bite.Very cinematic,given the locale of the tale and it's characters. Would highly recommend "European Son..."
Author's Comment: Several other readers, too, have told me that the book is very visual
and cinematic.
European Son by SteveRS on Nov. 24, 2012
Levy candy-coats nothing here and cuts right through to the soul, or more correctly, to a young man searching for his own. The length of the book belies the depth which at times is nearly elegiac. The author writes with such skill you are never quite taken over that edge into the abyss, continually pulling you back with a sense of hopefulness that the protagonist never seems to reach but finally realizes where it is if he wishes to find it. The brief poetry sprinkled throughout is simply breathtaking. A remarkable achievement. Bravo!
Author's Comment: A lovely review. And I'm so glad he liked the poetry.
By Richard Vinson on November 19, 2012
"European Son" chronicles a detached and rebellious young man as he searches for his identity through his manipulation of others. Each engaging encounter describes a narrow passage of his life and helps illuminate his conflicts which bring him nearer his transformation. This gripping novella delivers on many levels; it's both entertaining and thought provoking. Five stars!!!
Author's Comment: I wanted this to be a thought provoking read, and I'm glad it was for this reviewer.
5.0 out of 5 stars Shades of Seduction
By Sal Paradise on November 30, 2012
Love takes on many shapes in this novella. Triangles become squares and seem to interlock with other lines as the story unfolds. From its dysphoric main character, whose interaction with strangers becomes increasingly sinister, to its flashbacks of past events, foreshadowing a dramatic ending, this is certainly an engrossing read. The light poetry between scenes and pivotal moments really captures the mood of each chapter. I originally thought it was solely about love (or desire) and interwoven relationships, but I was pleasantly surprised. Indeed, I was reminded of The Stranger at times, frustrated at the diffidence of the main character who seems to wander through life, perhaps searching for the parental relationship he never had. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
Author's Comment: Camus' "The Stranger" was indeed an influence for me.
Intriguing Debut
By Glen Bob on January 25, 2013
Mr. Levy's first outing does for bisexuality what "Jaws" did for sharks ! It reads well,I ,in the parlance of a shark,devoured it in one bite.Very cinematic,given the locale of the tale and it's characters. Would highly recommend "European Son..."
Author's Comment: Several other readers, too, have told me that the book is very visual
and cinematic.
European Son by SteveRS on Nov. 24, 2012
Levy candy-coats nothing here and cuts right through to the soul, or more correctly, to a young man searching for his own. The length of the book belies the depth which at times is nearly elegiac. The author writes with such skill you are never quite taken over that edge into the abyss, continually pulling you back with a sense of hopefulness that the protagonist never seems to reach but finally realizes where it is if he wishes to find it. The brief poetry sprinkled throughout is simply breathtaking. A remarkable achievement. Bravo!
Author's Comment: A lovely review. And I'm so glad he liked the poetry.
November 29, 2016
"Amazon Reviews"
4.0 out of 5 stars
Stylistically Brilliant!
By FHB on February 12, 2013
Barry Levy creates a story filled with intrigue in a style all his own. A young man's journey and his yearning to connect and feel loved are beautifully articulated through the author's poetry and prose. Levy's use of parallel
storytelling kept my interest piqued with the intermingling of the protagonist's past and present relationships. His distinctive style, scattered with poetry and sprinkled with French words and phrases, creates a beautiful, artistic piece of literature. C'est vraiment fantistique!
Author's Comment: Yes, I agree. The main character wants "to connect."
5.0 out of 5 stars
Beautifully crafted
By 10022reviews on August 7, 2013
The novella is beautifully crafted and the sparse, highly-controlled writing kept me intrigued. The narrator's detached voice created a level of tension that the writer skillfully maintains throughout the novella, communicating so much yet often remaining elusive and turning the story into a puzzle you want to solve. The choice of the novella form, one not often used, enhanced the story by keeping it tight and focused, and allowed for short, sometimes cryptic chapters that moved the story forward by opening new questions. A longer novel would have diminished the story's impact as well as the writing; a short story would have undercut the mystery and mood the author was able to create.
Author's Comment: A wonderful review! And very much on target!
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fascinating Writing
By rillori52 on March 8, 2013
European Son moves quickly and never flagged in its hold on my attention.The book kept me falling forward deeper into its protagonist's spiral. The chilling ambivalence of the narrator, whose name we never learn (more ambivalence?) caused me a wide range of emotion. That's good writing - for ambivalence to create an emotional response.
Levy establishes a verbal rhythm that stayed in my head well after I was finished reading. He is a writer from whom I, for one, hope we get much more.
Author's Comment: I am glad that this reviewer was drawn in by the protagonist's detached and ambivalent voice and by the
rhythm of his narration.
Stylistically Brilliant!
By FHB on February 12, 2013
Barry Levy creates a story filled with intrigue in a style all his own. A young man's journey and his yearning to connect and feel loved are beautifully articulated through the author's poetry and prose. Levy's use of parallel
storytelling kept my interest piqued with the intermingling of the protagonist's past and present relationships. His distinctive style, scattered with poetry and sprinkled with French words and phrases, creates a beautiful, artistic piece of literature. C'est vraiment fantistique!
Author's Comment: Yes, I agree. The main character wants "to connect."
5.0 out of 5 stars
Beautifully crafted
By 10022reviews on August 7, 2013
The novella is beautifully crafted and the sparse, highly-controlled writing kept me intrigued. The narrator's detached voice created a level of tension that the writer skillfully maintains throughout the novella, communicating so much yet often remaining elusive and turning the story into a puzzle you want to solve. The choice of the novella form, one not often used, enhanced the story by keeping it tight and focused, and allowed for short, sometimes cryptic chapters that moved the story forward by opening new questions. A longer novel would have diminished the story's impact as well as the writing; a short story would have undercut the mystery and mood the author was able to create.
Author's Comment: A wonderful review! And very much on target!
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fascinating Writing
By rillori52 on March 8, 2013
European Son moves quickly and never flagged in its hold on my attention.The book kept me falling forward deeper into its protagonist's spiral. The chilling ambivalence of the narrator, whose name we never learn (more ambivalence?) caused me a wide range of emotion. That's good writing - for ambivalence to create an emotional response.
Levy establishes a verbal rhythm that stayed in my head well after I was finished reading. He is a writer from whom I, for one, hope we get much more.
Author's Comment: I am glad that this reviewer was drawn in by the protagonist's detached and ambivalent voice and by the
rhythm of his narration.
November 21, 2016
"Some Recent Recognition"
“2016 Runner-Up Best Indie Book Competition” -- Shelf Unbound
Author's Note: Full disclosure -- I was not the only Runner-Up. But, hey, I'll take an almost win!
Author's Note: Full disclosure -- I was not the only Runner-Up. But, hey, I'll take an almost win!
