If you like a bit of weirdness in your reading, a bit of fable for fun, look no further than Undermajordomo Minor. It caught me by surprise, in a good way. Here’s the blurb:
I laughed my way through Man Booker shortlisted author of The Sisters Brothers Patrick De Witt’s latest novel Undermajordomo Minor. The dialogue, which was funny in its matter-of-fact, quaint politeness, the circumstances, which were absurdly dark, and the overall delivery, which was surprising, captivating and even disturbing, made for a book I couldn’t put down. It’s one of those books that’s hard to describe – it’s an adventure, a mystery, a dark fairytale, a comedy and a love story all in one. It’s strange, surprising and sweet and sour all at once … and it leaves a lingering taste of a book well savoured.
‘You have annoyed me mildly. It is abating as we speak.’ Mr Olderglough looked out the window, and back. ‘Has anyone ever told you you possess a likability?’
‘Not that I can recall, sir, no.’
‘You possess a likability.’
‘I’m happy to hear as much.’
Blue Eyes read this book before me – a man of few superlatives, he said it was weird, but enjoyable.
Available from good bookstores (RRP $27.99AUD). My copy was courtesy of Allen & Unwin.
Monique Mulligan
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David Edwards is the editor of The Blurb and a contributor on film and television