Andrew Smith: Grasshopper Jungle

I had forgotten about this weird and wonderful book. It does not really fit into any genre that has boundaries - it’s comically twisted, black, pretty sexual sci-fi - I think. Been a long time since I read but flipping through it I do recall how ones expectations are suddenly exploded or one suddenly darts off down a hitherto unrecognised narrative lane. In one sense too, it is a coming-of-age story and it was that aspect that I think made me pick it up originally - but its NOT your usual, often highly moral and proper coming-of-age story. It is pretty much an adult view of the process and all the better for that.

I do know that I found it very funny - both for its outrageousness and for the kind of humour that causes a hoot of recognition in the reader.

I also much enjoyed the distinctively ‘jerky’ prose - lots of one sentence paragraphs which are used very effectively when making comic and/or jaw-dropping points. A good example of style and substance working perfectly hand in hand. Its very self-consciously written too - as I have hinted at in my last remark but this is a good part of what makes it so distinctive and effective. the author’s/narrator’s voice comes through with crystal clarity and we really feel we are sharing the weird and wonderful experiences that he is having.

A fun smart read - must check to see what else he has done.