Orbital, by Samantha Harvey #BookReview.

On By stuartakenIn Author, Book, Creative Writer, Fiction, Literature, opinion, Reading, Review

On rare occasions, a reader encounters a book that inspires, entertains, edifies, and asks questions in such a way as to force him to reconsider long-held views. Whilst I was already in full agreement with some of the ideas and conclusions revealed in this small and beautifully written book, there were some notions that forced me to look again, more thoroughly, at the world. This happened in a way that was constructive rather than damaging, thought-provoking rather than destructive.

The relationships and personal histories of the six astronauts speeding around our tiny vast planet made them very real people, engaging and fascinating in their variety. The seamless transitions from exquisite geographical descriptions to deep sections of philosophical exposition brought surprise and, frequently, clarity to a number of beliefs and theories, views and opinions on many topics.

The language of the book is often poetic, frequently surprising, and almost always stimulating. I was lost in its confined, infinite spaces throughout the read. And, perhaps most wonderfully for a reader who is also a writer, I was presented with a type of presentation that might be beneficially applied to my current work in progress.

A truly magical read, full of depth, breadth, and sometimes extraordinary, but always appropriate connections. Thoroughly enjoyed this worthy winner of the Booker Prize.

[Any review is a personal opinion. No reviewer can represent the view of anyone else. The best we can manage is an honest reaction to any given book.]

12 thoughts on “Orbital, by Samantha Harvey #BookReview.”

    1. I came across it via a short feature on a TV programme, mentioning it had just won the Booker Prize. Other books I’ve read with that accolade have always been good, so I thought I’d give it a try. Very glad I did!

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