Madame Bovary - Gustave Flaubert

Before the wedding, she has believed herself in love. But not having obtained the happiness that should have resulted from that love, she now fancied that she must have been mistaken. And Emma wondered exactly what was meant in life by the words 'bliss', 'passion', 'ecstasy', which had looked so beautiful in books.

I have finished reading this classic for the first time and understand, as with most 'classics', why it deserves that distinction. Some refer to this book as the first modern novel. The writing is beautifully constructed with exquisite detail paid to each sentence. The characters are classics in literature exhibiting the great themes that cycle forever, but told in a unique fashion.

This book was bold in its time creating much controversy. It is mild by today's standards but still has the ability to capture the reader with timeless themes. The author is a master at crafting a story about real people living real lives. It creates a wonderful portrait of lives in small town France in the 1800s.

A Quiet Life - Kenzaburo Oe

This all happened the year Father was invited to be a writer-in-residence at a university in California, and circumstances required that Mother accompany him. One evening, as their departure drew near, we gathered around the family table and had our meal in an atmosphere slightly more ceremonious than usual. Even on occasions like this, Father is incapable of discussing anything important concerning the family without weaving in some levity. I had just come of age, at twenty, and he started talking about my marriage plans as if they were a topic for light discussion.

Oe is a Nobel Laureate from Japan. He bases this story on a family separated by the parents extended stay in California. The daugher and a mentally challenged son remain in Japan. The daughter must define family as she takes on care-giving for her brother.

I enjoyed the slow pacing and style employed by the author. It is told in the first person from the daughter's point of view. Simple, and yet complicated, situations arise to take the reader into the unique lives of this family. Much of what happens takes place in the minds of the characters, especially the daughter. The style is gentle and thoughtful. I was very drawn into this book. In a very unassuming manner, it examines relationships. Most intriguing is the mentally handicapped son with musical skills of a genius.