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Silence of Bonaventure Arrow, The

Leganski, Rita

  16 Reviews

Young Bonadventure Arrow has been bestowed a most unusual gift: his hearing is otherworldly, allowing him to hear such things as flowers growing, hearts beating and even the feelings of spirits, including those of his father, shot to death before Bonadventure was born. But there is more to this gift than mere listening; working in conjunction with Creole housekeeper Trinidad Prefontaire, Bonadventure is able to provide solace to those who are close to him and avert further tragedy in a family brimming with secrets.

This is a truly original story of 1950s New Orleans, absolutely enchanting and uplifting, woven with magic realism, the transcendence of love and the power of healing.

Pages
378
Year
2012

Reviews

WELL 189
15-11-2023
We found this an absorbing and unusual book. It was beautifully written, with an easy flowing style. The story was quirky and kept us guessing most of the way through the book. We also liked learning more about the South, and the writer's descriptions of the area and the era were evocative. The boo is also an interesting exploration of different religions/belief systems and how they manifest themselves in the lives of the strong female lead characters. Would recommend as a "something different" read.
AUCK 307
31-10-2023
While a few people really enjoyed this book, the majority either didn't like it or were lukewarm, although the language and and style of the writer were enjoyed by most. The unreal nature and spiritual and supernatural elements put a number of readers off. Those who saw it as being a 'fairy tale' were able to appreciate it from this angle.
PARAPA 005
16-06-2022
One person didn't finish the book and didn't relate to it, but everyone else absolutely loved it! The storyline, the quality of the writing and the gentle mystique.
CHCH 376
07-11-2021
Assessed as a most remarkable and wonderfully magical book by most of our group (with a few grumpy outliers!), this is a story to approach with an open mind and open heart. Rita Leganski has produced a true masterpiece on the wonders of being human, in all the various ways which result from the accidents that happen in life. Bonaventure Arrow would be a fantastic dinner guest - but might require some special treatment! Well worth a read!
TAKA 001
12-10-2021
There was a whole range of responses to the book, some loved it, others got bored, found the plot was missing and did not like the supernatural stuff. The general consensus was that having the ability to hear as Bonadventure had, that it would have driven him mad. The different opinions and interpretations led to interesting and stimulating discussion in the group.
WANAK 008
05-10-2021
Unexpectedly loved by all of group - most unusual book, and unusual for group. Fascinating tale.
KARAKA 004
22-09-2019
There was a mixed reaction to this book from our group. Some couldn't finish it, finding it difficult to get into and not enjoying the mystical elements, others thought it was only okay and a couple in the group loved it.
GISB 006
20-03-2019
Beautifully written. Sensitive story. Excellent "come-uppance" for a main character.
TEPUK 005
20-03-2019
We all loved this book, and one of our ladies read it twice.
KAUKA 002
20-03-2019
We all loved this book with its great characters. A wonderful discussion.
WAITAT 004
20-03-2019
A mixed reaction to this book. Some read it very quickly and enjoyed it without asking too many questions, others struggled with how implausible it all was. Some didn't finish, feeling that the characters didn't win them over at all.
WINT 002
08-03-2019
A well-written and beautiful story. Very original.
MORRI 001
08-03-2019
Everyone was positive about this book, and all were surprised how much they enjoyed it. It is very well-written and quite beautiful in places. it holds your attention to the end, when all the storylines come together. All felt it was worth reading.
CROMW 004
08-03-2019
This was an unusual book. Some of the group really enjoyed it, while others didn't like it at all. Very well-written.
DUNED 002
08-03-2019
While most people enjoyed this book, a few of us didn't, which always makes for a long, intense discussion. Those of us who loved it found it poetic and mysterious, and all were glad that Adelaide got her comeuppance!
WHANG 022
22-08-2018
This book is exceptionally well-written and has a fascinating setting and characters. We LOVED this book, highly recommended.