Customer Reviews

Uncle's Story

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

 

 

The opening pages of Uncle's Story suggest a twist that the reader may guess.. but after the first few pages, all bets are off... as Witi Ihimaera takes the reader on a wild and action-packed ride of plot twists and character development. Similar to Whale Rider, in that it's a coming of age (coming out of the closet?) story of a young Maori fighting against the bias and proud traditions of one's tribal family. Uncle's Story has additional drama with it's backdrop being the Vietnam War.

If you saw the movie Whale Rider and loved it, then you owe it to yourself to read Uncle's Story. You won't be disappointed!!!

This is one of the finest novels to tackle aspects of masculinity within a tribal community. It seemlessly blends in the Vietnam War with its multi generational tale of machismo, love, homosexuality and family. I laughed, I cried and was totally absorbed by this book.

The book arrived quickly and was in the shape that it was described. It is also a wonderful book.

Witi Ihimaera is on of my favourite authors and this book does not disappoint. OK, so perhaps it is a little sterotypical and a little dramatic in places but it grips you. Sam and Cliff are vibrant characters and I empathize with them completely. The backdrop of the Vietnam war is a fitting context and the battle scences detailed. I really enjoyed this book, Witi Ihimaera is a master storyteller.

If you liked this, you may wnat to read "Nights in the Garden on Spain" also by Witi. Also very very good.