I was looking forward to Ben's story and the epilogue to "The Fifth Child" by the same author.  I have enjoyed this book even more than I had its predecessor.  This is a book about being different. About acceptance and understanding.  A book that pierces the heart.
Ben Lovatt.  Who was he?  What was he?  As vulnerable as a newborn baby, yet at times very wild, instinctive, almost... feral.

May I suggest to read "The Fifth Child" first.  This sequel stands on its own perfectly but I still feel that the reader would understand Ben's tale better by reading about his birth and family beforehand.

Once again I have admired Ms. Lessing's writing style (just like before, no chapters in this book, just a few pauses) and her ability to convey an emotional pathos with a simplicity that captivates deeply.  This book was gripping, powerful and really sad.  The quote from a British newspaper on the book cover -I bought the UK book edition- summarizes my feelings "A wonderful novel, flawless as a black pearl".
I was looking forward to Ben's story and the epilogue to "The Fifth Child" by the same author. I have enjoyed this book even more than I had its predecessor. This is a book about being different. About acceptance and understanding. A book that pierces the heart. Ben Lovatt. Who was he? What was he? As vulnerable as a newborn baby, yet at times very wild, instinctive, almost... feral. May I suggest to read "The Fifth Child" first. This sequel stands on its own perfectly but I still feel that the reader would understand Ben's tale better by reading about his birth and family beforehand. Once again I have admired Ms. Lessing's writing style (just like before, no chapters in this book, just a few pauses) and her ability to convey an emotional pathos with a simplicity that captivates deeply. This book was gripping, powerful and really sad. The quote from a British newspaper on the book cover -I bought the UK book edition- summarizes my feelings "A wonderful novel, flawless as a black pearl".