Three O'Clock in the Morning by Gianrico Carofiglio - 4 stars (Subdue)

[Joy D]

Three O'Clock in the Morning by Gianrico Carofiglio - 4* - My Review

Antonio, a fifteen-year-old living in Italy, is diagnosed with idiopathic epileptic seizures. He goes on medication and must follow guidelines that result in being ostracized by his schoolmates. This coming-of-age story covers his initial diagnosis, a second opinion from a doctor in Marseilles, and a follow-up three years later, where part of his treatment requires him to stay awake for 48 hours. During this time, he and his father get to know each other, and speak about topics they have never before broached. It is a subtle and creative story. The characters felt real to me. It is short and flows beautifully. I found it easy to read in one sitting. It is a story of father-son bonding, but never ventures into sentimentality. It is a fine piece of writing.