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Arthur and George
(2006)
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Author: Julian Barnes
Publisher: Vintage
Pages: 512
ISBN: 9780099492733
Genre: Fiction
Format: Paperback

'Arthur and George' is a well written and touching evocation of the characters of two very different men. Barnes' wry and heartfelt style means that as a reader you can't help but forge an emotional connection with the two protagonists. His characterisation throughout is flawless.

However, this is a hefty book to plough through and sometimes it becomes more of a chore than a pleasure. There were times when I felt tempted to skip ahead a few pages because nothing appeared to be happening. However, with other Barnes novels I have read I found his style to be frequently irritating as he tries to prove intellectual points that only seem to be included to prove to the reader what a clever man he is. I was pleased to find that there was little of this in 'Arthur and George.' He focuses on the characters instead of trying to play the annoying game of intellectual one-upmanship.

Overall I would recommend this book, just be warned that it is by no means a light read.