Several folks indicated that they were interested in the reaction that my book club would have to the novel Independent People. We met last night and it was by far one of the best book discussions that we have had in a while. They all agreed that no one should read the forward before beginning this book. It gives away too much of the plot. Everyone was amazed at the beauty of the translation. Everyone was left stunned and drained by the saga. Everyone agreed that this is a novel that they will never forget and Bjartur of Summerhouses is a character that will haunt them for some time to come. To my great relief the humor was also readily apparent to the folks in my group. At one point as I was reading this I began to question my sanity. How could I be laughing out loud in the middle of unrelenting awfulness?

I hate it when reviews and discussions give away too much plot. I don't want to do that here. But that said, this book is in a different league.

Thank you.

Robert

Thanks very much from me too! I have that one waiting on the pile. I **hate it** when the foreword - or worse, the back cover - gives away the plot.