Tue. June 27, 2006
By Chad Sosna
Book: You Remind Me of Me
Author: Dan Chaon
Review: 5 stars (out of 5)
Stellar writing, gripping characters
I had not read a novel by Dan Chaon but this will not be my last. This is a unique, intertwined story about Troy, a man who loves his son but has his faults; Jonah, a lost "little boy" who is an adult coping in a world that he doesn't quite understand; and the distant story of their connection, their mother, Nora, whose sad life sets the tone for the next generation.
We delve into the story of each of them as they come of age, the story of Nora's early era contrasting interestingly with that of Troy's more druggie era and Jonah's self-reflective days. Troy was the son Nora gave up for adoption, Jonah was the one she kept--and who was the luckier? You will find out in this novel's unusual twists and turns.
The element of how Loomis, Troy's son, fits into the picture, is also colorful and augments the story with contrasting how Loomis is like Jonah, and the position that Troy has in the middle of them both.
This is the type of book for those who like the gentle unfolding of storylines. It is not an action-packed novel, but yet is fully interesting. What a great character study! Both Troy and Jonah unfold like gradual flowers, showing captivating nuances and self-reflection that applies to all of us.
This rich novel is surely a harbinger of even greater stories to come from this author. Do not miss this deep, moving, inspiring novel that has lessons for all of us.
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