Friend of the Earth

T.C. Boyle's novel "The Tortoise's Song" is a comedy with teeth, razor-sharp and darkly funny. It is set in 2025 and follows 75-year-old environmentalist and retired eco-terrorist Ty Tierwater, who is eking out a bleak living managing a pop star's private zoo. The book is a modern morality tale and a provocative vision of the future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 02 May 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

T.C. Boyle's novel "The Tortoise's Song" is a captivating blend of comedy, razor-sharp wit, and dark humor. The Times aptly describes it as a comedy with teeth, showcasing Boyle's exceptional prose and fertile imagination. As readers delve into the story, they are effortlessly swept along by the author's vivid storytelling.

Boyle's prose is characterized by its clarity and precision, while his imagination runs wild, taking readers on a surreal and daring journey. The novel is a testament to his talent as a writer, as he effortlessly weaves together complex themes and characters in a way that is both thought-provoking and entertaining.

One of the standout qualities of "The Tortoise's Song" is its ability to be both surreal and compassionate. The story takes place in 2025, a time when the world is plagued by environmental crises and climate change. Through the eyes of 75-year-old environmentalist and retired eco-terrorist Ty Tierwater, Boyle explores the devastating effects of human actions on the planet.

Ty's life is a stark contrast to the glamour and excess of the pop star he manages, and his struggles to survive in a world cursed by storm and drought are relatable and poignant. The novel's portrayal of the human condition is both realistic and surreal, as Ty grapples with his past mistakes and attempts to make amends for the harm he has caused.

At the same time, "The Tortoise's Song" is a hilarious and darkly funny exploration of human behavior. The characters are flawed and complex, with their motivations and actions often being driven by selfishness and greed. Boyle's sharp wit and ability to create memorable dialogue add to the humor of the story, making it a pleasure to read from start to finish.

The novel's ending is both surprising and satisfying, leaving readers with a sense of hope and closure. It is a testament to Boyle's skill as a storyteller, as he manages to tie together all the loose ends and deliver a conclusion that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

In conclusion, "The Tortoise's Song" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a blend of comedy, wit, and dark humor. T.C. Boyle's exceptional writing and provocative vision of the future make this novel a standout in contemporary literature. With its surreal and compassionate portrayal of the human condition, this is a story that will leave readers thinking long after they have turned the last page.

Weight: 204g
Dimension: 194 x 118 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526608918