On Beauty
Smith, ZadieIn a 21st-century update of Howard's End, art historian Howard Belsey, a transplanted Englishman married to an African-American woman, returns to London to prevent his son from marrying the daughter of his academic rival. In the meantime, Belsey's other children, Zora and Levi, are each seeking the commitments and identities that will define their own lives. The result is a vivid portrait of marriage and family, and the conflict between family, and the political and the personal, as well as people's affinity for self-deception.
Comments from Groups
We found it a hard read but so rewarding with deep analysis. Loved it more in retrospect than while we were reading it. Amazing discussion. Hokianga 001 Immensely enjoyed by most of the group. Skill in language and characterisation admired - a lot of dipping into the novel during the discussion. Palmerston North 008 We found the book quite hard going. Those who read it did enjoy it. Mt Maunganui 006 Mixed reception. A very dense read. Rotorua 006 Good descriptive writing. Had some very funny moments. Tells life like it is. Christchurch 145 All very much enjoyed the book. A beautiful writer. Christchurch 122
Pages
446
446
Year
2005
2005
Reviews
28-03-2023
Not much interest. Preferred 'White Teeth' by this author.
28-03-2023
Only one member did not enjoy this book. The rest of us found it interesting and well-written.
28-03-2023
Mixed reviews but some very positive comments.
28-03-2023
Not much interest. Preferred 'White Teeth' by this author.
28-03-2023
Mixed reviews from our group. Most found it hard to engage with and looked for more 'action' within the events of the plot. However the slower more conversational style of writing was also appreciated. Most felt it read in a 'dated' way - although all were keen to try further work by the author.
28-03-2023
We felt this was a very dense story with characters not overly believable. An unusual book that half of us couldn't get into or get finished.
28-03-2023
Enjoyed ( but not raved about!) by all.
28-03-2023
Not a very popular book - people did not engage with the characters, or feel that it had much plot, or was very funny!
28-03-2023
Not generally liked. A number of people read the beginning and then gave up. Discussion therefore limited.
28-03-2023
The notes did not mention 'On Beauty' was a reworking of 'Howard's End'. It could have made the discussion more interesting!
28-03-2023
Unfortunately not really enjoyed. A bit slow and didn't go anywhere much.
31-08-2022
Made for an interesting discussion. Gave insight into academia and racial differences.