Names of Things, The

Wood, John Colman

  4 Reviews

Reluctantly accompanying her husband as he studies a nomadic tribe, the anthropologist's wife does not want to be in north east Africa. But it is not until years later that the consequences of her acquiescence will become tragically apparent. So much so, that he must return to the wilderness of the desert to come to terms with what has happened.

Elegantly written and thoughtfully conceived, this story is a sensitive exploration of love and grief that benefits from the authority the author, who is an anthropologist, brings to these subjects. [Larger font]

Comments from Groups

Highly rated by all the group - thought provoking, and a clever mix of objectivity and subjectivity. Beautifully written. Greytown 001

Generally enjoyed by all. The descriptions are superb, and there was much discussion about the various relationships...Takaka 001

This showed a clarity and an amazing use of words to paint the picture of a man working with a desert tribe of people in the 'backblocks' of Kenya. It was quite drawn out though, and it was very easy to lose the thread of the novel, as the headings were not always as clear as they could have been. Tauranga 005

Not everyone enjoyed it, but we all were pleased to have read it. Some thought it too sad to be enjoyable. Some really enjoyed it and felt it was most worthwhile. So, a mixture! Timaru 007

The group found this book well written, and with special qualities - sadness too. Interesting discussion. We would recommend...to be read unhurriedly. Christchurch 043

We found the novel slow and 'drifty', but it suited the subject and environment. It made one realise that an academic education was of little value in this environment. Matamata 004

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