Laura Starzynski answers “Loved the book but found Libby as narrator...”

Amanda Vaughan asked this question about Fleishman Is in Trouble:

Loved the book but found Libby as narrator somewhat jarring. I kept forgetting she was the narrator in fact until her voice intruded. And her omniscience was unexplained - any other thoughts on this aspect? Why not just use 3rd person omniscient for each character?

Laura Starzynski I think her perspective allowed for a much more honest view of the characters. She knew Toby from before. She knew his potential and she sees his grea…moreI think her perspective allowed for a much more honest view of the characters. She knew Toby from before. She knew his potential and she sees his great qualities, but also how he has become a terrible person, especially in his marriage. She can also sympathize with Rachel more than anyone because she's been where Rachel is: a woman judged for working and trying to fit into a man's world while also trying to be a mother. 3rd person omniscient is supposed to be unbiased while Libby definitely has a bias, but it's a bias that helps best to uncover the truth because she cares about both Rachel and Toby in different ways.(less)

flag

More questions about Fleishman Is in Trouble…

Fleishman Is in Trouble

by Taffy Brodesser-Akner

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more