It’s not everyday your debut novel catches the eye of
Hollywood executives and is made into a feature film starring two talented actors
(Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence), but such is the case for American author
Matthew Quick and his charming story The Silver
Linings Playbook.
Set on the streets of Philadelphia, it tells the tale
of Pat Peoples, a recovering mental health patient who moves back into his
parents’ home to rehabilitate and put the pieces of his life back together.
From start to finish Quick’s novel is an absolute
joy to read. The character of Pat is a complex one: he’s trying to regain his
memory and reconcile with his ex-wife whilst always trying to look for the
silver lining despite forces of evil trying to pull him down - notably Mr G
(Kenny G that is) - but Quick manages to weave a multi-layered web with ease and bring
the audience, not just the character, out the other side with hope.
It’s a poignant, enchanting, quirky tale that
highlights mental health issues in a refreshing way. Human beings can be a little crazy,
illogical and be strong in their convictions, but these qualities, in this
instance, make for a whimsical, delightful debut.
FG
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