Skip to main content
PBS logo
 
 

Book Review of The Sea

The Sea
The Sea
Author: John Banville
Genre: Literature & Fiction
Book Type: Paperback
reviewed on + 1438 more book reviews


A great story certainly deserving of the Man Booker Prize. The key character is Max Morden who has lost his wife and is searching for relief from the deep grief he is experiencing. He turns his steps to the seaside where he spent childhood days with a wealthy family. He found love during that period and as well as death for the first time in his life.

The reader finds depth in the lines written by this talented author. Walking with Max we realize how love, loss, regret, and memory affect us as we grieve for a loved one. The tale weaves between the past and Max's present state. He has found it difficult to work, to socialize, to do many things as he tries to understand both himself as well as what is happening to him. It is only by searching those long ago times that he begins to understand his grief.

The book is short but has so much depth and is so well written that I hope other readers will take time to pick it up and read it. Don't just skim it. Really read it and ponder the messages within and enjoy the prose of this outstanding author.