Gone Girl is one of those books that you either love or hate. Many of the book club members said that they had trouble getting into the book, but that they had to keep reading to find out what happened. In part one, the chapters alternate between Nick Dunne on his 5th wedding anniversary, and his wife Amy’s diary entries, starting on the day they met. That first chapter narrated by Nick hints that things are very wrong between them. Amy’s tradition for their anniversary is an elaborate treasure hunt with clues that relate to their relationship. Nick is dreading it. He never understands the clues and Amy gets frustrated. However this year, Amy disappears before she can give him the first clue. Nick contacts the police, but when he behaves in a inappropriate manner for a worried husband, suspicion turns to him. This book is full of twists and turns and lies; your sympathies will likely change from character to character as you learn more about them. Nick and Amy are unreliable narrators. They are lying to the reader, so you don’t know what the truth is. At our discussion, most people agreed that part one of the book was the best in terms of plot. The story has some holes in parts two and three; specifically that this version of Amy seems less clever than the one we originally met. The ending of the book does not tie up nicely; it is satisfyingly uncomfortable, if you like that type of conclusion!
The Chestermere Public Library’s Novel book club is a group of readers who meet by the fireplace on the third Thursday of the month at 7:00pm to discuss the current book selection. The only requirements to join are that you have a Library membership and are over 18 years old. Read the book and come to the meeting, no registration is required. The book is available to check out from the Library about a month before the meeting, and will usually include a discussion guide. Book suggestions for future discussions are always welcome.
The next meeting is on February 20 at 7:00pm to discuss “The October List” by Jeffery Deaver. Pick up the book at the Library and come join us!
