How to Be Both

by Ali Smith
How to Be Both cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Literary Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 675
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-09-20
  • ISBN: 9780241965610
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2014-08-28
  • Formats: 26
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99

How to be Both is a dazzling and inventive novel by Ali Smith that blurs the lines between time, art, and reality. The story weaves together two narratives: one set in the 1460s featuring a Renaissance artist and the other in the modern day following the child of a 1960s counterculture figure. Through a unique literary technique inspired by fresco painting, Smith creates a conversation between different eras, forms, and truths, offering a fresh perspective on love, injustice, and the fluidity of life. Smith's writing is praised for its passion, compassion, and playful structure, making How to be Both a singular reading experience. The novel has garnered numerous accolades, including the Baileys Women's Prize for Fiction and the Goldsmiths Prize, highlighting its innovative approach to storytelling and its exploration of art's versatility.

Reviews
pace, amore, libri · 2018-07-20
profound 4.20

The novel is a masterpiece but can be challenging and occasionally infuriating. The reviewer is deeply moved by the book's profound impact.

The reviewer acknowledges the novel's status as a masterpiece, praising its intricate craftsmanship and profound themes. However, they also note that the book can be challenging and occasionally frustrating to read. Despite this, the reviewer is deeply moved by the novel's exploration of time, gender, and identity, finding it both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

Quick quotes

    Occasionally infuriating and impenetrable but undoubtedly a masterpiece.

    This book floored me… but I would be lying if I said I enjoyed every moment.

    It is intricately crafted, intelligent, meditative and thought provoking.

JacquiWine's Journal · Jacqui Wine · 2015-02-11
great 4.00

The writing is warm and affectionate, with both parts of the novel being thoroughly enjoyable. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the characters.

Jacqui Wine is charmed by the novel's writing, which conveys a deep warmth and affection for the characters. They thoroughly enjoyed both narratives, finding each part compelling in its own right. The reviewer notes the intricate craftsmanship and the thoughtful exploration of the characters' lives, which adds layers of meaning and emotional depth to the story.

Quick quotes

    The writing is wonderful and Smith conveys much warmth and affection for these characters.

    I thoroughly enjoyed both parts, but I found the character development particularly compelling.

    The novel is intricately crafted and thought-provoking.

The Guardian · 2014-09-06
brilliant 4.50

The novel's dual narrative is masterfully executed, blending two distinct stories into a cohesive and compelling whole. The reviewer praises Smith's ability to weave together themes of time and identity.

The reviewer is captivated by the novel's structure, which seamlessly interlaces the stories of a contemporary teenager and a Renaissance painter. They highlight Smith's skill in exploring complex themes such as time, identity, and artistry. The writing is described as dazzling, with a depth that reveals itself gradually, making the reading experience both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

Quick quotes

    Ali Smith's latest novel combines two stories – one of a troubled teenager, the other an Italian fresco painter – to stunning effect.

    The novel feels like a frolic until its depth, heart and intelligence are revealed.

    Smith is brave and creative, dynamic and modern.

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