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Title:
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Universe Versus Alex Woods |
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Authors:
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Extence, Gavin |
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Genre:
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Fiction |
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Pages:
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408 |
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Year:
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2013 |
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Language:
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English |
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Description:
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In Alex Wood's short life, there have been two major life-altering events, and it's hard to say which will have the most effect: being hit on the head by a meteorite when he was ten, or, as a teenager, meeting his elderly reclusive neighbour Isaac Peterson while trying to evade the latest crop of school bullies. The unlikely friendship that develops gives Alex the sounding board he needs to sort out his philosophy on life ... and death. Astrophysics and neurology feature in this reckoning, as do God, Kurt Vonnegut and the vexed issue of assisted suicide.
This warm and engaging story is rich with humour, moral conflicts and intriguing characters tackling the important things of life ... and death.
Comments from Groups: Our group enjoyed this read - a sweet coming of age novel. However, at its core there is a serious topic which was great for discussion. Would recommend. Christchurch 229 The book was a fast and fun read, which raised some interesting, and topical issues. Wellington 046 We all loved it: clever, funny and quirky. An amazing first novel. Some members even thought it was the best book we'd had for several years! And, of course, discussion ( on the various issues raised) followed at length. Auckland 009 We all really enjoyed this one. Most of the ladies wanted to take Alex home. It certainly gave us plenty to talk about. Morrinsville 002 Everyone in our group loved this book.The characters are so interestingly drawn: and the bond that grows between Alex and Mr Peterson becomes so strong and real, that it touched us all deeply.....Auckland 088 On the whole our group loved this book. Strangely, the discussion revolved around Alex's Asperger's rather than assisted suicide, which was a surprise. It was a complex, humorous and well written book. We look forward to the author's next book. The notes are excellent too. Nelson 023 This book had mixed reactions from the group - some loved it, and some found it hard to get into. Most found that it was an easy read, and enjoyed the characters of Alex and Mr Peterson. Dunedin 039 Everyone enjoyed this book. A book that deals with heavy themes such as bullying, drug use and euthanasia in a pragmatic and thought provoking manner. A funny book that appeals to all ages. Wanaka 013
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Categories:
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Fiction, Contemporary, Grief/loss, Humour, Morals/Ethics, Young narrator, What's Hot, Popular Book with Groups |
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