Slaughterhouse-Five

Rating:
Summary: Powerful. Breathtaking.
Review: I read Vonnegut's masterwork when most people read it- in school. I was too young, and the book was mature and too sad. I didn't get it. However, experiencing the book as a middle-aged adult, I get it now. Oh, boy, do I get it. It is a rich, rich feast of humanity, humility and soul-retrival. The tenderness with which Vonnegut tells the picaresque tale of Billy Pilgram alleviates the more tragic elements and gives us a melancholy story of a man who just wants to live his life. Billy Pilgram transcends his life to an almost Buddha-like understanding of suffering, happiness and death. I listened to the audiotape recently, read by Ethan Hawke. This has to be one of the best audiobooks I have ever listened to. Ethan Hawkes' spare tone, and lowkey voice are a perfect marriage of prose and interpreter. He brings out flavors and colors that sent me flying back to re-read the book when I finished. I am richer for the trip. Listen or re-read Slaughterhouse Five and prepare to be profoundly moved by a master.