"The names," Claire said. "what about the names?"The Submission
"They're a record, not a gesture," the sculptor replied. Ariana's words brought nods from the other artists, the critic, and the two purveyors of public art arrayed along the dining table, united beneath her sway. She was the jury's most famous figure, its dominant personality, Claire's biggest problem.
by Amy Waldman
I don't read novels about 9/11, but The Submission by Amy Waldman is our book club's next selection. The jury mentioned in the above passage is assembled to decide on a memorial to be constructed at the World Trade Center site. I sat down to read the first chapter and ended up reading four - this has the potential to be a great book for discussion.
What do you think of the opening passage? Would you keep reading?
Every Tuesday, Diane at Bibliophile by the Sea posts the opening paragraph (sometime two) of a book she decided to read based on the opening paragraph(s). Feel free to grab the banner and play along.
First, I love the photo at the top of your blog. Great fall colors. The opening doesn't catch me, but there must be something about the first chapter since you kept going. Here's Mine
ReplyDeletePaulita - Thanks. I was afraid the colors wouldn't be as vibrant this year, but it has been just beautiful.
DeleteI don't read about 9/11 either so I would not pick up the book unless someone highly recommends it to me.
ReplyDeleteNise' - Given the subject matter, I'm surprised at just how compelling it is.
DeleteI have heard good things about this one, and the controversy does pique my interest. I would keep reading.
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting my blog.
Laurel-Rain Snow - I have seen a few of blogger reviews and they have all been positive. So far, I'm enjoying it too.
DeleteEh, I'm not a fan of 9/11 novels either.
ReplyDeleteSoftdrink - This may actually be the first 9/11 novel I've read...
DeleteI've had my fill of sad 9/11 stories as well, but this is one I did jot down to try. I've enjoyed this author previously.
ReplyDeleteGood intro - makes me curious, I'd keep reading.
Diane - This author is new to me. Glad to know you've enjoyed her work!
DeleteWe had one of the best discussion we have ever had as a book group in discussing this book. I liked it - my mother didn't. But even if you don't like it there is lots to discuss.
ReplyDeletePBurt - I'm SO glad to know that! We're overdue for a good discussion, so love it or hate, this could be it.
DeleteNo the opening lines do not grab me at all. And then finding out it is about 9/11 I would not want to read it. With book group books I do push myself more but it would have to have something good to recommend it. Love the fall leaves.
ReplyDeletePam - I definitely would not have picked this book on my own! So far, I'm surprised at how good it is. Hope it continues...
DeleteNot a book I would have picked out either. The opening does make me wonder about all the characters involved.
ReplyDeleteCarol - Just to pique your interest... Claire is the wife of a 9/11 victim.
DeleteI just might continue on with this. Looking forward to what you and your book club think about this one!
ReplyDeleteStaci - Just realized that I can't make it to the meeting! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it gets rescheduled for some other reason.
DeleteI'm also hesitant to read a book on 9/11, but this first sentence would make me leaf through more. If only to find out what Claire's beef with Ariana is about.
ReplyDeleteChinoiseries - I guess there's a first time for everything, and this is mine with a 9/11 book. It's actually very good so far.
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