A Jam Crisis

Not something, fortunately, which I have direct experience of, but a worrying proposition nevertheless.

I have returned from the forty degree heat of Sicily almost read out, a blissful and (for me) rather unusual state.

Powell in that context was like a strong cup of tea and a biscuit, and managed to make me feel an odd kind of homesickness. This whole first book felt a bit like grown-up Enid Blyton. In a good way, I hasten to add, but hot on the heels of V by Thomas Pynchon it felt a little lightweight.

I'm sure that's hugely unfair though. It's unfettered by Pynchon's inability to approach any narrative event head on for a start, and some memorable characters who have the ring of truth about them.

I wonder about the narrator's apparent colourlessness (is that even a word?) though, and whether it will start to grate; or if he were as much of a Character as his school chums perhaps that would grate even more. Certainly he evokes well the sort of hesitant uncertainty that plagued my teenage years.

Hell, even my not-so-teenage years.

Hmm. And he does seem awfully naive for a lad of seventeen.

Anyways, as English as jam and crumpets, and just as enjoyable. Some thoughts:

- Was it designed to be written in yearly chunks? Would explain the first two publication dates and why this one feels so introductory

- Had a look at the next book (yes, yes, I know, very naughty) and was immediately struck by the difference in tone. I think a monthly timetable very wel suited. Just a shame we're starting Spring in Autumn but can't be helped

- There's a slightly terrifying handbook to the series. Anyone come across it yet?

That's all for now, pip pip