This was my second foray into the Kultgen mind and I vividly remember the day a female coworker asked me what the book was about. Instead of trying to give the synopsis, I handed her the book and had her read the first, graphic and somewhat depressing but so very real,paragraph. And I guess that's my point about Chad Kultgen works. He writes about the disappointments that while most feel, few actually truly talk about. This novel has a clean, orderly structure that contrasts beautifully with how screwed up each of its central characters are. Perhaps screwed up isn't the most accurate description though. Maybe it's closer to the mark if we describe each as normal people trying to cope with routines and ruts in their own unique ways. Further, we see that all the distraction coping mechanisms used (from masturbation to video game addiction)aren't really that uncommon as strategies in the real world.I think Kultgen's works would not appeal to those out there who lead golden lives where the idea of being disappointed or dissatisfied is repulsive and or never experienced. However, for the rest of us, his works read more honest and on target and also successfully without apology. I guess in theory this is a good read but it is incredibly depressing and difficult to read. It's about failed marriages and eighth graders dealing with depression, eating disorders, porn addiction, and losing their virginity. These kids are 13!! It just makes me think of what our society is coming to, so it was difficult for me to stomach. So many times I was tempted to put it down for good but only continued because I'm morally against not finishing a book.
What do You think about Men, Women & Children (2011)?
Not as good, nor as funny as the other two books........could definitely have passed this one over.
—blu
Most bizarre book I have ever read. The ending was intense.
—Dylann
really enjoyed it up until the completely dead end.
—esmiemusic
