Customer Reviews

The Aerodynamics of Pork

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Two interrelated stories run in parallel, one set in London and quickly moving to Cornwall, the other remaining in London. The Cornwall part concerns the Peake family as they prepare for an annual music festival. The Peake Family includes talented violinist, 15 coming on 16 year old Seth Peake, his older sister Venitia with an ever expanding waist, and their liberal minded mother Evelyn. In London the story follows police inspector Mo Faithe, who in addition to chasing criminals pursues her own lesbian interests. The connection between the two stories becomes ever more apparent as events progress.
I found the Cornwall proceedings by far the more compelling, although the London end improved as the connection become clearer. The larger than life characters are interesting, including Bronwen the outspoken and understanding family friend in Cornwall. Seth is particularly appealing, attractive, unusually polite and well mannered, he enjoys a very good relationship with his mother, and an even more interesting relationship with a young man, 21 year old sculptor Roly MacGuire, with whom he falls hopelessly in love.
This is a very warm story, although I found it wavering a little in the early stages, particularly the London connection, but well worth reading.

The Publisher's Weekly review, from 1987, is pretty off-base. For one thing, Seth is not at all obsessed with sex. He's a teenage boy and has a sex life, but the book is not about him being addicted to sex. It is a fun story, ala Armistead Maupin. It was written and set in early 80's England and fairly captures the time. But it's acceptance of gay youth, the very positive portrayal of coming out, and the young-love match is very 2003. I highly recommend for young adults, but it's also a fun read for adults. Not weighty, just nice.

Another treat from Patrick Gale, author of "Kansas in August." These books are delightful fun. Bright original characters, amusing situations - who could ask for anything more? If you enjoy these books check out Barbara Pym's "The Sweet Dove Died," another little gem.