Nutshell by Ian McEwan

Wow, what a great read! Nutshell by Ian McEwan is such a unique and captivating story. You MUST read this novel. I've never read a book from the perspective of a fetus. This fetus who is, of course, unnamed throughout the entire book, is doing his best to stop his mother and her lover from murdering his father. So, this book is basically a suspense thriller because we follow this baby as he tries to comprehend why his mother wants his father dead. We hear his mother's and father's voices through him, so we understand their perspectives too.

This book is set in London, England, one of my favourite settings. Some of my favourite mystery novels are set in London. I'm not sure if it's the British authors who are so great or if it's the unique setting on London, with its rain, history, sophisticated language, delicious food, and revered royalty that intrigues me so. I only spent two days in London but I am so interested in this city. I also love the dry British humour and wit that I can so easily relate to.

I won't give away any of the relevant plot details because I can't bare to spoil this book for you at all. You must read it on your own to see just how thrilling it is. Instead, I will give you some of the questions the audience tries to answer with this baby: Why does Trudy, the pregnant mother, and her lover (another secret I will not reveal) want John, the father dead? How do they plan to kill John? Will they succeed in their plan? What happens to them if they succeed or if they don't succeed? How can the baby possibly do anything to stop them? Are Trudy and her lover evil or do they have reason to kill John? Is John evil? If Trudy and John are having a child together, why are they not a couple?

Ian McEwan is such a brilliant writer! He writes so fluidly with more allusions than anyone I've ever read. There are references to literary works, history, mythology, films and television, mathematical concepts, science, journalism, wars, and a thousand other things. The author integrates so many of these references so seemingly and with such ease. I am in awe of his writing! Occassionally, I fancy myself a good writer (though I've never written anything longer than a short novella), but I am nothing compared to McEwan. In fact, even my favourite authors are nothing compared to him. McEwan should be more recognized and applauded. He is a genius! I must read more of his work!

Well, this blog certainly isn't one of my best reviews at all because I am providing so few details. But I just don't want to spoil anything. I want you to read this book and discover its brilliance for yourself. Enjoy!