Review of Bad Form
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Wajida Begum
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Review of Bad Form
[Following is a volunteer review of "Bad Form" by Joe Taylor.]
In the imaginative world of "Bad Form," Joe Taylor introduces us to Billy Wise, a computer analyst from Alabama whose seemingly innocuous decision to skip a day at work catapults him into an extraordinary adventure. This tale begins with Billy's abrupt arrival in a mysterious locale known simply as "The House," a place that defies the mundane constraints of reality and where the ordinary logic of the everyday world does not apply. Here, the narrative takes a surreal turn as Billy encounters an assortment of talking animals and fantastical beings that challenge his understanding of reality.
Among these characters is Bogus, a snake not only endowed with the ability to speak but also possessing a mischievous wit that both aids and complicates Billy's journey. The house serves as more than just a backdrop; it is a complex character itself, filled with hidden rooms and secrets that unfold alongside the plot. The rules of The House, enforced by the enigmatic Mrs. Snelling, add layers of intrigue and challenge to Billy's and his companions' explorations.
As Billy delves deeper into the mysteries of The House, he meets Soapy, a woman who quickly becomes his companion and romantic interest. Their relationship, framed by the oddities of their surroundings, explores themes of connection and belonging in a world that constantly defies expectations. The romantic subplot between Billy and Soapy is tenderly crafted, providing a human element to the fantastical narrative and highlighting the emotional stakes amidst their unusual circumstances.
Joe Taylor skillfully uses this setting to weave a story that mirrors the unpredictability of life and the personal transformations that can result from embracing the unknown. The house, with its bizarre rules and peculiar inhabitants, serves as a metaphor for the challenges and opportunities that life presents, prompting both characters and readers to ponder the implications of the choices we make.
The narrative is imbued with humor and philosophical ponderings, mainly through the dialogue of characters like Bogus the snake, whose sardonic observations offer comic relief and deeper insights into the story's themes. This balance of whimsy and wisdom is one of the book's most compelling features, ensuring that the journey through The House is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
The prose of "Bad Form" is both accessible and engaging, with Taylor’s clear and fluid writing style ensuring that readers are drawn into the story without being overwhelmed by its complexity. The editing is exceptional, with each chapter polished to a shine, allowing the fantastical elements to stand out against the rigorously structured narrative.
In conclusion, "Bad Form" by Joe Taylor is a delightful fusion of fantasy and reality, where the journey of a simple man becomes an exploration of life's grander mysteries. Through its vivid characters and imaginative setting, the novel invites readers to question the very nature of reality and our place within it. It is a highly recommended read for those who enjoy stories that blend the whimsical with the profound, offering both entertainment and enlightenment. With nothing to dislike about this book, I rate it five out of five stars.
******
Bad Form
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
In the imaginative world of "Bad Form," Joe Taylor introduces us to Billy Wise, a computer analyst from Alabama whose seemingly innocuous decision to skip a day at work catapults him into an extraordinary adventure. This tale begins with Billy's abrupt arrival in a mysterious locale known simply as "The House," a place that defies the mundane constraints of reality and where the ordinary logic of the everyday world does not apply. Here, the narrative takes a surreal turn as Billy encounters an assortment of talking animals and fantastical beings that challenge his understanding of reality.
Among these characters is Bogus, a snake not only endowed with the ability to speak but also possessing a mischievous wit that both aids and complicates Billy's journey. The house serves as more than just a backdrop; it is a complex character itself, filled with hidden rooms and secrets that unfold alongside the plot. The rules of The House, enforced by the enigmatic Mrs. Snelling, add layers of intrigue and challenge to Billy's and his companions' explorations.
As Billy delves deeper into the mysteries of The House, he meets Soapy, a woman who quickly becomes his companion and romantic interest. Their relationship, framed by the oddities of their surroundings, explores themes of connection and belonging in a world that constantly defies expectations. The romantic subplot between Billy and Soapy is tenderly crafted, providing a human element to the fantastical narrative and highlighting the emotional stakes amidst their unusual circumstances.
Joe Taylor skillfully uses this setting to weave a story that mirrors the unpredictability of life and the personal transformations that can result from embracing the unknown. The house, with its bizarre rules and peculiar inhabitants, serves as a metaphor for the challenges and opportunities that life presents, prompting both characters and readers to ponder the implications of the choices we make.
The narrative is imbued with humor and philosophical ponderings, mainly through the dialogue of characters like Bogus the snake, whose sardonic observations offer comic relief and deeper insights into the story's themes. This balance of whimsy and wisdom is one of the book's most compelling features, ensuring that the journey through The House is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
The prose of "Bad Form" is both accessible and engaging, with Taylor’s clear and fluid writing style ensuring that readers are drawn into the story without being overwhelmed by its complexity. The editing is exceptional, with each chapter polished to a shine, allowing the fantastical elements to stand out against the rigorously structured narrative.
In conclusion, "Bad Form" by Joe Taylor is a delightful fusion of fantasy and reality, where the journey of a simple man becomes an exploration of life's grander mysteries. Through its vivid characters and imaginative setting, the novel invites readers to question the very nature of reality and our place within it. It is a highly recommended read for those who enjoy stories that blend the whimsical with the profound, offering both entertainment and enlightenment. With nothing to dislike about this book, I rate it five out of five stars.
******
Bad Form
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Sojourner To Stoner by Gordon Schwerzmann
