The Remains of the Day Book Review
The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro
The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro
Published 1989
Publisher Faber and Faber
Pages 254
ISBN 978-0-571-15310-7
I'm reading this simply because some of my students have chosen it as part of their independent study. I'm not completely ignorant of Kazuo Ishiguro- I know he is an acclaimed writer, several of his novels been adapted fir film- I have indeed bought to of his previous novel (again on my to be read shelf!) But this is the first Ishiguro I have attempted to read and Oh what a start! It certainly won't be the last!
If you have an foreign friends who are nostalgic for the taste of the quaint English countryside or are sentimental about bygone day then this si the novel for you. Written by an author who came to England from Japan at the age of 6- not only does he capture English culture perfectly- but manages to capture it during post-WW1 and pre-WW2. An amazing feat for anyone!
We experience the culture of life in the 'big house' through the eyes of its butler, Mr Stevens, very Downton Abbey! Although stoic to the core we come to understand that he has become the quintessential dignified butler at a cost. He sacrifices relationships not just with his father but the opportunity for love too. Although a relatively short noel there are several layers to this book. It is clear that the novel isn't just about an English butler. We think about time and life- about changes to come, about taking a leap and making the most of the time you have. One could argue the book is also socio-political- exploring the relationships between different social hierarchies and how one might always remain on the outside of this.
Here's me sounding all complex. The book is also imply a beautiful narrative where we are allowed as readers to really understand and explore the inner workings of one character- his hopes, dream, fears and are left wondering if he ever gets what he so clearly deserves. A difficult write to hang everything on the thoughts of one characters, from one perspective and ll set to the back drop of a simple ride and holiday to the Cornwall coast.
A romp of a book that I simply couldn't put down. He is the kind of character I wish I could sit down and chat with. Time for tea and cake methinks...
Now for my next Ishiguro- 'When we were Orphans.'
Overall Verdict
4 out of 5 Bookbugs!
Read outside under a parasol, tea in a china cup and yes, you must keep that pinkie out! A definite recommendation for any book clubs out there!
The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro
Published 1989
Publisher Faber and Faber
Pages 254
ISBN 978-0-571-15310-7
I'm reading this simply because some of my students have chosen it as part of their independent study. I'm not completely ignorant of Kazuo Ishiguro- I know he is an acclaimed writer, several of his novels been adapted fir film- I have indeed bought to of his previous novel (again on my to be read shelf!) But this is the first Ishiguro I have attempted to read and Oh what a start! It certainly won't be the last!
If you have an foreign friends who are nostalgic for the taste of the quaint English countryside or are sentimental about bygone day then this si the novel for you. Written by an author who came to England from Japan at the age of 6- not only does he capture English culture perfectly- but manages to capture it during post-WW1 and pre-WW2. An amazing feat for anyone!
We experience the culture of life in the 'big house' through the eyes of its butler, Mr Stevens, very Downton Abbey! Although stoic to the core we come to understand that he has become the quintessential dignified butler at a cost. He sacrifices relationships not just with his father but the opportunity for love too. Although a relatively short noel there are several layers to this book. It is clear that the novel isn't just about an English butler. We think about time and life- about changes to come, about taking a leap and making the most of the time you have. One could argue the book is also socio-political- exploring the relationships between different social hierarchies and how one might always remain on the outside of this.
Here's me sounding all complex. The book is also imply a beautiful narrative where we are allowed as readers to really understand and explore the inner workings of one character- his hopes, dream, fears and are left wondering if he ever gets what he so clearly deserves. A difficult write to hang everything on the thoughts of one characters, from one perspective and ll set to the back drop of a simple ride and holiday to the Cornwall coast.
A romp of a book that I simply couldn't put down. He is the kind of character I wish I could sit down and chat with. Time for tea and cake methinks...Now for my next Ishiguro- 'When we were Orphans.'
Overall Verdict
4 out of 5 Bookbugs!
Read outside under a parasol, tea in a china cup and yes, you must keep that pinkie out! A definite recommendation for any book clubs out there!
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