I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, which was a selection of my book club. It's about a young woman and an artist who is struggling to find her place in the world, and she is helped by a friendly ghost. There is a cast of weird and wonderful characters. Because I'm from the Canadian prairies, I particularly liked the setting of Winnipeg (which is an unexpectedly artistic community). Having read the short biography of this first-time novelist, I couldn't help wondering how much of the story is autobiographical. I would have given it five stars, but it seemed to ramble a bit in the middle. But it had a strong opening and a satisfying, and unexpected, ending. Definitely a character-driven novel, it’s populated with zany-but-real characters who all have complex inner lives and a back story to tell. Even Gladys the ghost. Stocks’ wry and oddball humour is likely the reason this book was awarded the Stephen Leacock medal, but at times I was disappointed in the plain-everydayness of the language. Especially when Gladys, finally, dances and the author glosses over it in a paragraph. Lots to think about here, too – the importance of human connection and reaching out to others. and being one’s authentic self despite barriers. Borderline chic-lit but … but much to recommend it.
What do You think about Dance, Gladys, Dance (2012)?
Delightful and charming. Characters large as life! A very pleasing read.
—mary
