Barney's Version by Mordecai Richler

Barney's Version is a deeply personal and politically charged memoir by Mordecai Richler, offering a blend of travelogue, historical analysis, and political commentary. The book chronicles Richler's evolution from a young Zionist in Montreal to a more complex understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly focusing on his 1992 trip to Israel during a period of intense unrest. Richler's encounters with Palestinian refugees, his visits to struggling kibbutzim, and his reflections on the history of the kibbutz movement provide a rich tapestry of personal and political insights. Richler's narrative is both introspective and critical, as he grapples with the moral and ethical implications of Israel's actions towards the Palestinian people. His predictions about the future of the peace process and the potential outcomes of political shifts add a layer of prescience to his memoir. The book is not just a personal journey but also a historical document that captures a pivotal moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Reviews

John Walters Writer · John Walters · 2013-02-24

engaging 4.00

The book is well-written and laugh-out-loud funny in spots, though the fluctuating style takes some getting used to. It's a compelling read despite its flaws.

John Walters found Barney's Version to be a delightful read, praising its humor and engaging narrative. He notes that the book's fluctuating style might be challenging at first, but it's worth sticking with. The characters are richly drawn, and the story is both poignant and funny. Walters appreciates the depth of the protagonist, Barney Panofsky, who is complex and flawed in the best way. The novel's strength lies in its ability to balance humor with more serious themes, making it a memorable read. However, he acknowledges that the style might not be for everyone, but those who enjoy a good, character-driven story will likely find much to love here.

Quick quotes

The book is very well-written and laugh-out-loud funny in spots.

Once you get used to the wild, fluctuating, back-and-forth style, it's a compelling read.

Barney Panofsky is a complex and flawed character who is both endearing and infuriating.

Blog Critics · 2011-01-25

remarkable 4.75

This novel is a masterful piece of fiction with humor, poignancy, complexity, and passion. It's a story that will stay with you.

The reviewer at Blog Critics describes Barney's Version as one of the most remarkable novels they've read. It's a story that has everything you could want from a novel—humor and poignancy, complexity and passion. The reviewer appreciates the way Richler crafts a story that is both deeply moving and incredibly funny. The characters are richly drawn, and the narrative is engaging from start to finish. The novel's strength lies in its ability to balance different tones and themes, making it a memorable read. The reviewer highly recommends it to anyone looking for a great piece of fiction.

Quick quotes

This is one hell of a masterful piece of fiction.

It has everything you could want from a novel—humor and poignancy, complexity and passion.

The novel is a story that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it.

Canadian Book Review · 2010-06-12

masterful 4.50

Barney Panofsky is a hot-tempered, witty, and complicated character whose story is both heartbreaking and hilarious. The novel is a masterful exploration of human nature.

The reviewer at Canadian Book Review highlights Barney Panofsky as a character who is equal parts infuriating and endearing. His complex personality drives the narrative, making it a compelling read. The novel is praised for its humor and poignancy, as well as its deep exploration of human nature. The reviewer appreciates the way Richler balances the dark and light aspects of Barney's life, creating a story that is both heartbreaking and hilarious. The novel's strength lies in its ability to make the reader care about a deeply flawed protagonist. It's a masterful piece of fiction that stays with you long after the last page.

Quick quotes

Barney Panofsky is a hot tempered, wickedly witted, alcoholic, caring, shrewdly intelligent, and complicated wretch of an old man.

It is very hard to dislike Barney, even when he is at his worst.

The novel is a masterful exploration of human nature.

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