ARA Review by swoverby of McDowell

[swoverby]

[Following is an OnlineBookClub.org ARA Review of the book, McDowell.]

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3 out of 5 stars

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REVIEW OF MCDOWELL BY WILLIAM H. COLES

Reviewer -- Susan Swanson

McDowell by William H. Coles is the story of surgeon Hiram McDowell, who at the beginning of the book is at the pinnacle of an illustrious career. He is also ambitious, and ruthless in getting what he wants. We meet him in Nepal where, as an insatiable mountain climber, he has reached the summit of the highest peak in the world. And how has he managed to reach this incredible (both literally and figuratively) height? He has gained both the fine reputation and the attending financial success through his elevated position at a charity hospital in the country, a position that includes hosting extravagant gatherings under the pretense of raising funds for the hospital. Hiram represents the world of those who deem fame and recognition as central to a good life.

When truth of malfeasance on his part surfaces, however, his life quickly takes a turn. And then when his unstable grandson commits mass murder and afterward gravely injures himself while attempting suicide and Hiram apparently kills him (possibly a mercy killing) the turn in fortune is devastating. It turns out that the killing is a theme that recurs in the book. Was it an immoral act? Was it an act of compassion? Might it have been generated by hatred? An ethical dilemma, to say the least.

Whatever, Hiram is convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to twenty-five years in prison.

After a year and seven months, he escapes and begins his clandestine and lonely tour of the United States. He also begins a written memoir of his life. And he meets and spends time with a librarian who gently enlightens him on his shortcomings. After departing from her and her family he finds that misses them, showing signs of humanity that were earlier missing in his makeup. And so it goes: state by state, living inconspicuously, Hiram is evolving into a different individual from the fellow we met in the first chapter. He gradually becomes quite likeable.

In some ways McDowell - especially in regard to the judiciary committee hearings - reads like the author has had actual experience in similar circumstances. This makes for interesting reading. And the author certainly covers a plethora of other subjects that are currently front page, such as lesbianism, infidelity, and sexism. Unfortunately, the writing is based on telling and not showing. And in a novel it’s important to leave room for the reader to observe and interpret what’s happening. When the author does this, the writing is much more effective.

In addition, the book needs editing. There are typos galore; the inner dialogue is awkward; and the story jumps around and is hard to follow, finally getting more interesting about a third through.

McDowell might draw readers interested in some info about mountain climbing, Nepal, and dysfunctional families. And even those searching for meaningful lives. However, being there was much need for improvement in the execution of the book, I give it 3 out of 5 stars.

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