The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold
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Best of: books for ages 18+ #6: ‘The Lovely Bones’ by Alice Sebold
Published in 2002, and an instant best-seller, ‘The Lovely Bones’ is a story told from a very unusual perspective. The narrator, Susie Salmon, has been raped and murdered, and looks down on her family from heaven to tell her tale. It received much critical and popular success, and was made into a film in 2009 which garnered mixed reviews, mainly due to the heavy violence and over-sentimentality, both of which became more graphic when portrayed via film.
Whilst the premise of the book is both unusual and controversial, the subject matter makes it a touching and at times exciting read. While at times it is unavoidably dark, the youth of the narrator – and her position in heaven – means that it is never too much for the reader.
For many people, the most interesting part of the novel may be the portrayal of heaven. As a setting for a book, it is undeniably interesting, and for that alone, the book is worth reading.
Not recommended for those who are particularly sensitive, ‘The Lovely Bones’ is nonetheless a captivating read.
By the same author: Two other novels: ‘Lucky’ and ‘The Almost Moon’.