2018 School Spending Survey Report
The Seed Collectors
Soft Skull. May 2016. 396p. ISBN 9781593766467. $26; ebk. ISBN 9781619028128. F
COPY ISBN
Dominated by women (all named for flowers), along with their spouses, lovers, and offspring, this new work from Thomas (The End of Mr. Y) places the greater Gardener family on course for a chaotic contemporary adventure following the death of matriarch Oleander. The search for, or lurch toward, enlightenment is central to a narrative set largely in contemporary London and is critically important to those family members whose parents disappeared after seeking mysterious seed pods that promise a shortcut to spiritual illumination or to death. The entangled narratives of so many reveal serious character flaws (e.g., Byrony's secret drinking and binge shopping, Fleur's incestuous feelings, and Charlie's sexual aggression). Their flaws make them believable and certainly entertaining.
VERDICT Thomas succeeds in creating a funny yet poignant tale that is as much about yearning for connection as it is about seeking enlightenment. Kudos to her for penning a splendid novel that blends botany, philosophy, and mystery.
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER? LOG IN
We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER? LOG IN
Thank you for visiting.
We’ve noticed you are using a private browser. To continue, please log in or create an account.
Comment Policy:
Comment should not be empty !!!