Experience

Experience cover
Good Books rating 4.33

Technical:
  • ID: 624
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9781446401453
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2010-12-23
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online

In 'Experience,' Martin Amis provides a candid and introspective exploration of his life, focusing on his tumultuous relationship with his father, the renowned comic novelist Kingsley Amis. He chronicles the various crises that marked Kingsley's life, culminating in his death, while also reflecting on the tragic fate of his cousin Lucy Partington, who vanished in 1973 and was later found to be a victim of one of Britain's most notorious serial killers. /n/n This memoir is not just a personal narrative but also a meditation on family, loss, and the enduring impact of the past. Amis's sharp wit and literary prowess shine through as he navigates the complexities of his own experiences and the broader historical context in which they unfolded.

Reviews
Literary Review · A N Wilson · 2025-09-18
balanced 4.00

This is considered Martin Amis's best book to date, though at times it feels overwritten and strained.

A N Wilson praises the book as Martin Amis's best work yet, highlighting its depth and quality. However, they also note that parts of the book feel overwritten and strained, which slightly detracts from the overall experience. Despite this, the reviewer appreciates the book's strengths and finds it to be a significant addition to Amis's body of work. The reviewer suggests that the book might be tailored more towards an American audience, which could explain some of its stylistic choices.


Quick quotes

    This is probably Martin Amis's best book to date.

    Yes, it is at times overwritten, strained to the ...

The Guardian · 2000-06-05
engaging 4.50

The book is moving, angry, and wonderfully stylish, packed with incident and humor. It is a deeply personal and engaging exploration of the author's life.

The reviewer found the book to be a powerful and stylish memoir that balances humor and deep emotion. They appreciate the author's honesty and the way he weaves personal anecdotes into a compelling narrative. The reviewer also notes that the book is packed with incidents that make it engaging and thought-provoking. Overall, it's a moving and insightful read that offers a unique perspective on the author's life and experiences.


Quick quotes

    It is moving, angry, honest, and above all wonderfully stylish; it is packed with incident and anecdote, and very, very funny.

The New York Times · 2000-05-23
compelling 4.50

The book is a fully realized work that fuses humor, intellect, and a newfound gravitas and warmth.

The reviewer finds this memoir to be one of Martin Amis's most fully realized works, blending his characteristic humor and intellect with a new depth of emotional warmth. They appreciate the way the author explores complex relationships and personal struggles with a refreshing honesty. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to balance different elements, making it a compelling and enjoyable read. Overall, they see it as a significant achievement in Amis's career.


Quick quotes

    The result is Mr. Amis's most fully realized book yet -- a book that fuses his humor, intellect and daring with a new gravitas and warmth