Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel

Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel

It’s fair to say the group was split.

“I liked it” came a defiant cry from the corner as our group sat down to discuss this book.

“Why?” asked the less than impressed.

So, with gloves off, our discussion began.

Those who enjoyed this book cited their enjoyment of the subject matter. Those who didn't get what was so great about it felt life is too short!

“I expected to be irritated by the third person present tense.” Said one member of our group – “I was” said Felicity. We all agreed it is written in a confusing style.

One suggestion was to read this book in big chunks because it is very get ‘in-to-able’ – I couldn't get ‘in-to-it at all’ was the 'no' team retort.

After the initial dispute we got into some serious chat around the story. We agreed it is in an interesting subject tackled from an interesting angle. It was a good picture of life at the time and gave insight into aspects of life such as the annual plague.

Thomas, an impressively self-made man, seemed to be a good family man and got on with most people, despite his harsh start in life and it didn't feel like his loyalty to others was for his own gain or for his family to climb the ladder. Unlike (for example) the Boleyn family.

But, there were far too many Thomas’ in the story. Oh and Marys’ and Henrys’ but I don’t think we can hold that against the author as they were all real people.

“There are some funny bits and some humour” – that was the only positive comment one member could make.

Of our group (of nine) two had finished the book and two intended to do so. It is an acquired taste. It’s not a page turner and most of us won’t bother reading another Hilary Mantel book.

Enough said I think. Our next meeting is on 14th May when we will be discussing A Young Doctor's Note Book by Mikhail Bulgakov.