The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Posted by Cami Eslick on
June 4, 2008
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
PLOT:
Christopher is a 15 year old autistic boy who gives us a narrative of his adventures when he discovers something curious. The story begins with Christopher finding his neighbor’s dog dead. She comes upon Christopher and her dearly departed dog and, thinking he killed the dog, has him arrested. Christopher decides to uncover the truth about what really happened to the dog. As Christopher searches to learn the truth, he discovers what really happened to his mother. Through his journey, we get to view the world through Christopher’s eyes, a world where logic, the cornerstone of Christopher’s world, is often swept under the rug.
THE SCOOP:
I loved this book and recommend it to everyone. The story is deliciously funny and Christopher is truly a character you can understand and relate to. What makes this story stand out, is the author’s brilliant way of writing from the viewpoint of an autistic boy. I felt as though I had a new appreciation for how a person with autism sees the world, and how hard it can be for them to relate to the way the rest of us act. One of the most fascinating part of his tale is when Christopher describes how he “feels” emotion. I am still amazed by the insight this author has. This book also made me realize how complicated (unnecessarily so) we can make things.
This book is funny and insightful all at the same time. It’s one of those books I just couldn’t put down and hated to see end. As an added incentive (as if you should need one) this book is listed in 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die. Grab a copy of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and settle in for some fun.
