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Primitive People
Primitive People
Author: Francine Prose
What are these barbaric rituals that pass for social and family life? Who are these fearsome creatures who linger in decaying mansions and at glittery malls, trendy weddings and dinner parties? These are the questions that trouble Simone, a beautiful, smart young Haitian woman. She has fled the chaotic violence of Port-au-Prince only to find her...  more »
ISBN-13: 9780374237226
ISBN-10: 0374237220
Publication Date: 4/1992
Pages: 227
Rating:
  • Currently 3.5/5 Stars.
 2

3.5 stars, based on 2 ratings
Publisher: Farrar Straus Giroux (T)
Book Type: Hardcover
Other Versions: Paperback
Members Wishing: 0
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Raindancer avatar reviewed Primitive People on + 5 more book reviews
"Francine Prose uses her language as a scalpel to dissect the world of pretense, privilege, and bombast. She writes wonderfully and her dialogue is the about the best in the business," wrote reviewer Stephen Dobyns.

This is a book of barbaric rituals of a modern-day New York family, as viewed by their young Haitian au pair. She becomes entangled in a web of deception, delusion, and ultimately, grim discovery. Rosemary is a neurotic mom, newly estranged from her philandering husband. The children have retreated into their own secretive, morbid universe.

It is a razor-sharp reflection of American family behavior. I hope no family you know.
I was facinated and disturbed by these people.