Review of In Search of Achilles
Posted: 13 Nov 2024, 15:38
[Following is a volunteer review of "In Search of Achilles" by Marco van den Berg Scholten.]
In Search of Achilles is a brilliant book by Marco Van Den Berg Scholten Johan that takes place in several cities in Europe, especially Berlin and Amsterdam, where a new sense of freedom has emerged and is causing all sorts of manifestations within society. Johan sees his friends embark on this new way of living where freedom is showcased through speech, opportunities, and new ideals. At the same time, he keeps feeling a bit lost and confused with the sudden alterations within society. After all, is this freedom as great as everyone thought? Are we losing our sense of humanity and our moral values? All of these questions seem to shadow Johan van Geesteren, but how does he cope? Will he embrace these changes or put his foot down regarding his beliefs?
I must admit that I embarked on this book with an open mind. Still, I was left speechless by the author’s talent to capture such a sensitive and subjective topic and make it relatable not only for the 1980s or the 1990s but also for our present days, where change is a non-stop protagonist in our society. I often found myself relating to some of Johan's concerns or even doubts, which is incredible considering that we are not talking about the same scenarios or even periods.
I also must praise the author’s writing style, as the descriptive beginnings of both the characters and the scenery were the main reason I found this book to be extremely immersive and cohesive. This writing style reminded me a bit of a literary classic, especially European literature, where descriptions are long and exhaustive to enhance every single character and emotion translated afterward.
That said, I don’t think I can point out a single downside to this book. I gladly rate it 5 out of 5 stars and hope to read more books from this author, as his debut novel is absolutely marvelous. I also didn’t find a single error, which leads me to say that this book was extremely well-edited.
Regarding a possible recommendation, I don’t think this book is everyone’s cup of tea, especially because you have to enter it with an open mind and a side enjoyment for history, philosophy, and critical thinking in general. However, for everyone who enjoys being challenged by a book, this is definitely worth reading.
******
In Search of Achilles
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
In Search of Achilles is a brilliant book by Marco Van Den Berg Scholten Johan that takes place in several cities in Europe, especially Berlin and Amsterdam, where a new sense of freedom has emerged and is causing all sorts of manifestations within society. Johan sees his friends embark on this new way of living where freedom is showcased through speech, opportunities, and new ideals. At the same time, he keeps feeling a bit lost and confused with the sudden alterations within society. After all, is this freedom as great as everyone thought? Are we losing our sense of humanity and our moral values? All of these questions seem to shadow Johan van Geesteren, but how does he cope? Will he embrace these changes or put his foot down regarding his beliefs?
I must admit that I embarked on this book with an open mind. Still, I was left speechless by the author’s talent to capture such a sensitive and subjective topic and make it relatable not only for the 1980s or the 1990s but also for our present days, where change is a non-stop protagonist in our society. I often found myself relating to some of Johan's concerns or even doubts, which is incredible considering that we are not talking about the same scenarios or even periods.
I also must praise the author’s writing style, as the descriptive beginnings of both the characters and the scenery were the main reason I found this book to be extremely immersive and cohesive. This writing style reminded me a bit of a literary classic, especially European literature, where descriptions are long and exhaustive to enhance every single character and emotion translated afterward.
That said, I don’t think I can point out a single downside to this book. I gladly rate it 5 out of 5 stars and hope to read more books from this author, as his debut novel is absolutely marvelous. I also didn’t find a single error, which leads me to say that this book was extremely well-edited.
Regarding a possible recommendation, I don’t think this book is everyone’s cup of tea, especially because you have to enter it with an open mind and a side enjoyment for history, philosophy, and critical thinking in general. However, for everyone who enjoys being challenged by a book, this is definitely worth reading.
******
In Search of Achilles
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon