Saturday 25 March 2017

Don't I Know You?

Don't I Know You?
by Marni Jackson



There is a slightly surreal quality to Marni Jackson’s debut novel, Don’t I Know You? A novel broken into short stories, each one following Rose McEwan’s life from 16-60. These stories go through Rose’s  life chronologically, and each one contains a pop culture figure as a central character role  in the story. Whether it is wise words given by Joni Mitchell, a friendly kidnapping by Bill Murray, the best part of each story is Rose’s uncanny ability to describe the weird world she’s living in. 

Jackson is great at setting a scene and there is a languid flow to her words that really carries the reader on and through even some of the confusingly unbelievable celebrity encounters like Bob Dylan as an impromptu, guest-bedroom-crashing mooch. These stories, despite Rose’s recurrent proximity to fame and fortune, aren’t about the glamour and glitz of celebrity, but more of a sort of mundane celebrity fanfiction. And don’t let my use of “fanfiction” deter you either: these stories could exist without the celebrities and they would still be interesting, well-written vignettes. The use of celebrities allows the reader to bring their own characterization into the picture- a sort of shorthand to explore the story without worrying about having to build a character from scratch. Though certainly infused with detail from Jackson’s imagination, we all know a bit about Dylan without having to read much backstory or context. This also gives an intimacy to the storytelling- what would we do if Bob Dylan turned up at our cottage? 

There is a strong humour to Jackson’s choices of how the celebrities turn up in Rose’s life, an almost Wes Anderson-translated-to-the-page offbeatness.

I do think that this book is stronger in the first half than the second, as the stories do get a bit less believable as they go on. Another way to avoid this would be to read the book a few stories at a time, maybe even out of chronological order? Regardless, I enjoyed the writing and the premise is fun and original.

4 comments:

  1. Hi! This company https://domyessay.com/ wich do my essay has a reputation for superior quality, and the writers at this company deserve premium pay. You can sign up to receive a price quote for your order. The prices for high-level papers start at $10, while college-level academic writing starts at $12-$18 per page. You should look for a site that offers affordable prices and guarantees high-quality essays.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Very great post.
    I am really satisfied with your blog. Such an amazing information, I read your blog. What an awesome article! I had never seen like this blog before. Very worthful blog and keep sharing such an useful blogs more for us...
    es nueva jersey un estado de divorcio sin culpa

    ReplyDelete
  3. Whether you're relocating within the city or moving to a new state, our team of experienced professionals will ensure a smooth and hassle-free transition with packers and movers Nashik price.

    ReplyDelete