Poor Things by Alasdair Gray

Poor Things is not like any other novel I have read before. It is not only the storyline, but the characters, illustrations and general writing style that make this piece of work by Gray an imaginative and intelligent masterpiece.

Gray writes in a way which really captures the reader. No matter how much you may shake your head at how unrealistic events are, you still drawn in to the storyline. His imagination and creativity work in such a way that key issues as class divide, power and feminism are written about with real passion beneath the bizarre plot. Further to the key issues raised, Gray shows a side of scientific knowledge and insight into the human psyche in Poor Things.

As for Gray’s characters, they are so real, you can almost taste them. They are quirky and eccentric, yet they manage to warm the reader and there is a real sense of charm in the way that they are described.

There are illustrations in the novel which are also by Alasdair Gray. These may seem exaggerated at times, but really add flavour to the novel. There is also the mocking edge and amusing side to them which make you imagine events with more vibrancy.  

What I loved most about this novel is how the plot itself seems to undermine and question itself. Further to this, Bella’s version of events that follow after the novel raise even more interesting questions. You are constantly left speculating on issues. The beauty of it is that whichever way certain facts are depicted, there is no correct version of events.

You’re in for a real rollercoaster of a ride. Not for the light-hearted though.