BOOK REVIEW

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time – Mark Haddon

A lovably charming weekend read 

        Simultaneously published in different editions for adults and children, this book is a splendid read that can be enjoyed by readers of any age. It follows the adventure of a mathematically gifted fifteen-year-old boy in the English town of Swindon. Christopher suffers from a social disorder that prevents him from understanding behavioural norms but also allows him to perceive things in a way others can’t (as is so often the case with similar social conditions). Because the plot is quite compressed, I fear giving away any plot points would be too much of a spoiler so I shall avoid the temptation and instead remark that this story, like The Perks of Being a Wallflower, is touching in its genuine sensitivity.

          Haddon keeps his writing quite simple, appealing to grown-ups without isolating his younger readers. Humorous, painful and awkward, the novel holds the readers’ hand through Christopher’s experiences and his interpretations – often very different to that of a normal person’s – of his surroundings. These types of books I appreciate so much for opening my eyes to the perception of those who struggle with mental or social conditions. The sole negative of the book with which I was disappointed was its rather abrupt finale: though the ending was clear enough to interpret, I almost felt as though Haddon had frantically rushed the last few pages in order to meet his publisher’s deadline. Despite the curtain falling in rather anticlimactic fashion, I don’t believe the shadow it cast was enough to taint what was otherwise a wholly enjoyable story about a young boy’s bravery and inimitable outlook.

-NP, Dec. 2013