By Mark Haddon
4 Stars
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is the story of Christopher Boone, a 15-year-old who is great at math but faces social difficulties. In the beginning, the story takes place in Swindon, England, where Christopher discovers that his neighbour's dog, Wellington, is dead. Determined to solve the mystery, he goes on an investigation that leads him to uncover unexpected truths about his own life.
Mark's portrayal of Christopher provides readers with a good look into a mind that perceives the world differently. The narrative shows Christopher's logical approach to understanding his surroundings. This not only enriches the storytelling but also allows readers to experience Christopher's thought processes firsthand. The novel goes into themes of trust, family and the challenges of communication. As Christopher's story progresses, readers see him grow. The writing is insightful, capturing the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of going through a world that often feels overwhelming. Its innovative narrative has connected with a wide audience, making it a modern classic.
The only criticism I can think of for this book is that it may portray autism unfairly. Christopher is often showing little to no empathy and can be violent in some cases. This could be harmful to readers with autism, as it might give the impression that all people with autism behave this way.
Overall, this novel shows the exploration of a quest for the truth. Its unique perspective makes it a must-read, definitely a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
Reviewed by Becky
View in Library Catalogue: eBook | Audiobook CD
Add a comment to: Book Review: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time