The Bus On Thursday By Shirley Barrett Book Review | The Seventeenth Line
The Bus on Thursday is a gripping novel about Eleanor, a schoolteacher who moves to the small town of Talbingo, Australia after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Written by Shirley Barrett, the novel takes the reader on a roller coaster ride as Eleanor navigates her new environment, deals with her cancer diagnosis, and encounters strange occurrences in the town.
Main Themes and Ideas
The Bus on Thursday explores several themes and ideas that are relevant to readers. One of the main themes is the fragility of life and the importance of living in the present moment. As Eleanor faces her mortality, she becomes more aware of the beauty around her and begins to appreciate her life in a deeper way.
Another important theme is the power of community and the need for human connection. Eleanor finds support and friendship in unexpected places, and it is this sense of community that helps her through her darkest moments.
Barrett also delves into the idea of the supernatural and the unexplainable. The strange occurrences in Talbingo suggest that there is more to the world than what meets the eye, and Eleanor finds herself questioning the nature of reality.
Critical Evaluation of Writing Style
Barrett’s writing style is unique and engaging, and she effectively conveys Eleanor’s emotions and experiences to the reader. The use of humor and sarcasm adds lightness to the novel, while also highlighting the seriousness of Eleanor’s situation.
One of the strengths of the writing style is the use of vivid imagery to create a sense of place. Talbingo is brought to life through Barrett’s descriptions, and the reader can easily imagine the small town and its inhabitants.
However, some readers may find the novel’s jumps between reality and the supernatural confusing, and the ending may leave some unresolved questions. Additionally, the use of profanity and sexual content may make some readers uncomfortable.
Comparison to Other Works
The Bus on Thursday stands out in the genre of literary fiction, thanks to its unique blend of humor, mystery, and supernatural elements. It may appeal to fans of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale and Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar, both of which also deal with female protagonists facing difficult life circumstances.
However, readers looking for a straightforward story without supernatural elements may be disappointed. The Bus on Thursday is a novel that requires an open mind and a willingness to accept the unexplainable.
Overall Impression
The Bus on Thursday is a thought-provoking novel that explores important themes and ideas. Barrett’s writing style is engaging and unique, and the novel offers a fresh take on the genre of literary fiction.
While some readers may find the jumps between reality and the supernatural confusing, and some of the content uncomfortable, The Bus on Thursday is ultimately a satisfying and enjoyable read.
FAQ
How does The Bus on Thursday deal with the theme of mortality?
The novel explores the fragility of life and the importance of living in the present moment. As Eleanor faces her own mortality, she becomes more aware of the beauty around her and begins to appreciate her life in a deeper way.
What is the writing style like in The Bus on Thursday?
Barrett’s writing style is unique and engaging, with vivid imagery and a blend of humor, mystery, and the supernatural. However, some readers may find the jumps between reality and the supernatural confusing.
Who would enjoy reading The Bus on Thursday?
The novel may appeal to fans of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale and Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar, both of which deal with female protagonists facing difficult life circumstances. However, readers looking for a straightforward story without supernatural elements may be disappointed.
Does The Bus on Thursday have a satisfying ending?
The ending of the novel may leave some unresolved questions, but overall it is a satisfying read.
