Review: An endearingly funny book, full of pathos and joy
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 04 2, 2013
This is a review ofThe Boy Who Kissed The Skya novel by David Haynes.The story revolves around an event that George, the protagonist, had when he was 3 years old (1 month short of his fourth birthday, in fact). He managed to fly - just the once, but nevertheless, fly he did.Fast forward to George in young adult life. He remembers his first 'flight', (well, you would, wouldn't you?), and decides that he would like to repeat this miracle. Trouble is, he's forgotten how.This entertaining story takes the reader on a road trip as George, encouraged by his rather strange friend Van, searches for people who he believes had, or have, the ability to fly. The characters met on route are outrageous, obnoxious, strange, funny, and full of pathos, often all at once.The story unfolds, and it all seems to be coming to an almost predictable conclusion - and then the author pulls a master stroke. Brilliant ending.David Haynes has the creative ability to not only craft a good story, but to populate it with some very weird characters, who are also very believable - we all know people who these characters could easily be based on.There are some references to Jack Kerouac, who, although I have heard of, have never read, but this doesn't seem to detract from the story, except to add some confusion, and the desire to read some of his writings.My copy was a review copy provided by the author in return for an honest review.4 and half stars.