Swimming to Atlantis: A Novel [Hardcover]

Charles J. Hebert (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 1997

A metaphysical murder mystery which follows the tale of Andrew Jordan, whose encounters with a homeless, web-footed man claiming to be heir to the throne of the lost city of Atlantis. Astonishing for its depth of feeling and compassion, "Swimming to Atlantis" is an unforgettable, chock full of riotous New Orleans characters.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"The struggle between what we know is real and what we want to believe, despite all evidence to the contrary, is beautifully depicted in Andrew Jordan's confusion." LORI WILKERSON Washington Observer-Reporter

"One would have to look carefully to find a contemporary genre in American letters in order to properly locate Charles Hebert's novel, "Swimming to Atlantis." Judith Guest's "Errands into the Wilderness" comes to mind. Perhaps too the work of Tobias Wolff, especially in "This Boy's Life." Mr. Hebert, like these authors, writes about the nature of the human soul, the geography of the soul." ROBERT ROECKIEN, JR. Writing Instructor, Rutgers University -- Publisher Comments

Product Details

• Hardcover: 279 pages
• Publisher: Pontalba Pr; 1st edition (May 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0965314502
• ISBN-13: 978-0965314503
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.3 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,117,092 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars completely amazing, May 13, 2000

By 

bethany burgess (florida and new orleans) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Swimming to Atlantis: A Novel (Hardcover)

Upon reading the title of this book, I had no idea what to expect. I had heard of Charles Hebert and was excited to read Swimming to Atlantis. It did not disappoint me at all. I think I cried when Andy Jordan wanted to cry, and laughed when things went great, something that does not happen for me often when reading. The twist at the end was also a total surprise. It's an amazing read, especially for people who do not read many mystery/crime novels, and for those who do it's a fresh take on the traditional murder mystery. It will shock you.

3.0 out of 5 stars An amphibious escape from reality, June 25, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Swimming to Atlantis: A Novel (Hardcover)

This is a nice summer read, especially when consumed near a large body of water like the Gulf of Mexico. Before plunging into Swimming to Atlantis, cast aside your skepticism because except for the setting and law firm politics, nothing about this book is realistic. Enjoy the fantasy, especially if you harbor a small belief that gilled humans exist.

There are endearing characters, like Flipper, and deplorable ones, like Mr. Fabacher. The suspense is good, especially in the last 1/3 of the story. With the right screenplay daptation, Swimming should make a very entertaining movie.

5.0 out of 5 stars great first publication, May 16, 1998

By 

[e-mail] (covington. la.) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Swimming to Atlantis: A Novel (Hardcover)

I read Swimming to Atlantis as a reading group choice, and am so glad I did. The book was magical. The story left room for the reader's imagination to decide how he or she felt about Christian Waterman, the main character Andy and their relationship. We who live in or have lived in New Orleans where the story is set know anything can happen. The book has great New Orleans feeling. I was even more impressed after meeting Charles Hebert in person--what a valuble addition to new, young authors. Can't wait for the movie.