The Monk Downstairs (Plus)
by Tim Farrington
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Book Summary Information
Author: Tim FarringtonEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2006-05-23
ISBN: 0061122424
Number of pages: 320
Publisher: HarperOne
Book Reviews of The Monk Downstairs (Plus)
Book Review: Charming...no surprises but that doesn't matter.
Summary: 5 Stars
It is true, as the few negative reviews state, that there is little to no suspense in this book. It is also true that this doesn't matter a bit. I did something I rarely do. Seventy pages from the end, I set this book down for a few hours because I really did not want it to be over.
In a book as patiently unfolded as The Monk Downstairs, a reader has the leisurely treat of inhabiting the mind of an intelligent, witty person as she learns to surrender to love's vulnerability. Rebecca is inspired to do so by Mike, a tall, awkward, shorn ex-monk she rents to on a whim. All characters are clearly, convincingly drawn, and Mary Martha is realistic, charming, and possesses her own internal life--that's refreshing in a portrayal of a six year-old. One of the most hilarious parts of the book is the description of Rebecca's nonrelationship with Bob.
I take issue with the remarks of reviewers who stated that the book doesn't deal with Mike's loss of faith and vocation. Those issues are explored in his bitter, ranting, apologetic, hopeful, spiritual letters to a fellow monk. The issues of contemplation vs. action are explored in a day-to-day examination of how Mike changes as he does less of one and more of the other.
I'd recommend this to fans of Anne Tyler especially...that patient prose, flashes of wit that will make you laugh out loud, and the same attention to the details of children. It's a beautiful book, full of insight, that will leave you feeling refreshed and hopeful.
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