Helpful Score: 1
This was a terrific coming-of-age story set in Australia. Well-written, good characterization and sense of place.
This was my first read by Tim Winton, and have to say I probably wouldn't have read it, but watched the movie version of it on Netflix. This process, I usually like the other way around read the book, then watch the movie. The book was beautifully written and set in Western Austrailia. The main subject matter isn't something I would pick up a book up and read on (surfing), but this book is way more than that! It's a tale of 4 main characters first Pikelet and Loonie two adolescent boys who are want to be surfers. Then interject Lando a mid 30's adult who they look up to and want to mirror, Lando becomes their mentor. Later Lando's wife Eva becomes a main player and also has an effect on their lives. Like all of us Lando is one of those who come into our life and someone we want to emmulate when we are younger-being good or bad. This book is about life and the paths we take, making choices and picking friends, making experiences as we connect with others. It's about what all of us do we grow up so fast then reflect back wishing perhaps we had done things a little different, or taking that other proverbial path in the road! A fantastic coming of age book which will make all of us reminisce, and take a long look at our own lives. Kudo's to Tim Winton, so much so "Breath" will be with me forever as great reads do! Now I am a fan and can't wait to find other adventures Tim Winton has published.
