Review: This book is exactly how intelligent literary fiction should be
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 11 30, 2012
Quantum physics deals with the behaviour of objects in the microphysical, subatomic, world. In this context Einstein had many discussions with physicists who were committed to an interpretation from which they concluded that nothing - the moon included - exists unless it is being observed. In other words: if you look at the moon, the moon exists, if you turn around and look in the opposite direction, the moon no longer exists. I suspect not many people would take this kind of reasoning seriously if not a genius, Albert Einstein, had taken it seriously.With this somewhat unusual introduction let me tell you what this amazing novel is all about. Ultimately, it is a very beautiful love story. Without exception, the major characters in this book are likeable people. As you get to know them you would like to meet them, perhaps share a bottle of wine with them and talk about religion, God, reality, the US president Laura Georgina Bush, the CIA, about neutrinos and leptons, out of body experiences, love, sex, immortality and the best way of walking through a solid wall.Some of these topics may sound unrealistic. They are and they are not, readers will have to decide that for themselves. They are presented in an often comical fictional context. But just let me remind you of Einstein's discussions with physicists about the existence (or non-existence) of the moon. So don't make up your mind about the reality of our world too quickly. The author's great achievement with this book is that he manages to embed these largely philosophical topics in a gripping plot about the life experiences of Simon and Ambrosia, the couple at the heart of the novel's love story.This book is interesting and hugely entertaining; it presents challenging ideas and is very witty. It is exactly how intelligent literary fiction should be. I couldn't put it down. It cost me a night's sleep and made me change my priorities the following day. I am truly excited about this novel and recommend it highly.