Disgrace by JM Coetzee
I must say my first and foremost motivation to read the book was to read Booker’s prize book by a Nobel Laureate, that’s only 220 pages. However, all plans fell flat, as the book will probably stick with me for long and not necessarily in a feel-good way. First things first: This is a very grown-up book, so pick it up only if you are ready for a grown-up conversation. But, at the same time, it isn't a hopeless one – it expresses confusion, anger, and sometimes despair, but also a certain sense of searching that at least imagines a different future. The word Disgrace is what struck me with nearly every page. Coetzee’s writing is like that. Tight. There’s no escaping what he wants you to see. It’s not outrageously blatant, but it’s none too subtle either. Main character Lurie, has a sharp intelligence, but too little empathy. My favorite passage from the book that describes him: At 52, twice divorced, David is solitary, resigned, erudite and sarcastic. He...