There is no word for the sound a life makes (From Watford Observer)

Mixed reviews for Howard Jacobson

3:54pm Thursday 14th May 2009 in Community By Watford Women's Centre

Our book group recently read 'The making of Henry' by Howard Jacobson, it received mixed reviews. Some members found it to be a bit of a slow burner, requiring an investment, but worth it for the beautiful use of language and the experience of stumbling across phrases that linger in the mind such as 'there is no word for the sound a life makes'.

A couple of members found that they were unable to get past the first few chapters, finding it difficult to empathise with the main character. Henry is an unhappy man who is trying to reconcile where he has come from with where he finds himself.

If you like a book where the chief character reveals himself slowly in infinitesimal degrees, then you'll enjoy learning about Henry and the course of his life.

If action and fast moving plot is more your style, we'd recommend you try something else.