Told by four people from different generations and backgrounds, this novel by the Man Booker shortlisted author will certainly intrigue you.
The first storyteller is a dying painter in ’60s rural Italy, the second a young blind girl who was once taught by the artist, the third perspective is of a middle-aged landscape artist in England (who wrote letters to his older Italian counterpart) and the final point of view is of the Brit’s talented daughter who’s devastated by her twin’s tragic death.
While art is a constant theme throughout, it’s also the only thing binding these four tales together. It’s almost as if this single book contains four separate stories, told in four unique tones.
At times it seems to drag a little but the beauty of the narratives will keep you hooked, making for an entirely satisfying read. This isn’t a book to be rushed; take your time and appreciate the prose.
HOW TO PAINT A DEAD MAN by Sarah Hall (R189, Faber & Faber)
Rating: 3/5
Reviewer: Claire Reddie