Arthur and George
Julian Barnes
The Arthur and George of the title are Arthur Conan Doyle and George Edalji, a half Scottish/half Indian solicitor. The book tells the (true) story of George being convicted of maiming cattle and Arthur going to his defence. The book consists of alternating Arthur/George chapters giving two psychological studies. Doreen described it as a Victorian/Edwardian book in language and style, the dialogue being used to move the story along. Interesting and very highly recommended.
Doreen 31/7/05
I liked this. It had interesting characters. The book is somewhat biographical. It has strange goings on in English country villages. There is an element of racism. George's father is a Parsee and George is black. His treatment was one of the cases that led to setting up of the Court of Appeal.
Rory 9/10/05
In line with Rory & Doreen's opinion, Bob highly recommended this, finding it hugely enjoyable and he much admired at the accuracy of Barnes' recreation of an ornate, late Victorian style. He did wonder if he would have enjoyed it quite so much if it hadn't been a true story.
Bob 6/11/05
Andrew liked this but not as much as some other members of the group – found it rather hard work. Takes a long time to get going, a lot of scene-setting. Gets more interesting once Arthur Conan Doyle gets involved and starts investigating. Poignant description of Conan Doyles marriage and affair. Andrew said he could have read the whole book without guessing it was by Julian Barnes – it reads like a 1920s novel. Cautiously recommended.
Andrew 7/5/06
By the same author
By the same author (writing as Dan Kavanagh)
The frames have gone all funny - click to make it good.