Born Weird was weirdly wonderful. At times it felt like that cousin who is so weird you don't know how to perceive that weirdness. Andrew Kaufman wrote a very heartfelt and emotional book under the cover of hilarity. It was reminiscent of The Royal Tenenbaums in some ways. This book was loaded and often the tears were of laughter and pain at the same time. Also, I loved how much of the Canadian landscape Kaufman employed. It made me feel so at home!Born Weird might be too weird for some. For me, it was perfect, since in real life, I am that weird cousin. This is my second full-length novel by Andrew Kaufman - the first being the Waterproof Bible - and I am yet again blown away by his simple, yet extraordinary plots. Every time I read one of his novellas, which I've also loved and devoured in one sitting, I wanted more. More absurdity, more magic, more...weird. And he gave us just that.In this story, we meet 5 siblings, all of whom were born Weird - not only because of their surname, which was a misspelling of their ancestor's name, Sterling D. Wyird, when he emigrated from England to Canada - but also because of their Grandmother (referred to as the Shark) who bestowed upon each of them a "blursing" (a blessing turned curse). Richard would always be safe, Lucy would never be lost, Abba would never lose hope, Angie will always forgive, and Kurt will always be strong when he needs to defend himself.Angie is given the task of reuniting her siblings so that their grandmother, who is now on her deathbed, could lift the curse at the exact moment of her death.Embarking on a fantastic road trip across Canada with the 5 siblings, we are plunged into their lives (past and present)and we get to know them so much better as we become connected with these characters while their story slowly unfolds.Once again, Kaufman delivers an excellent read, one that I've added to my favourite reading list. I look forward to reading more of his work.
What do You think about Familjen Weird (2014)?
Weird but wonderful. I loved it and would recommend it but be prepared!
—Shygirl
Kaufman's style reminds me of Roald Dahl - but for adults.
—ggghome
