The Liar (original 1991; edition 1994)

Gave up after 40 pages, just not for me I'm afraid! ( )

I didn't like this book. In fact I didn't finish it. I couldn't find the story. I never cared for a single character. I couldn't be bothered with the spy-laden interludes to the main story. However, because I adore Stephen Fry, I'm willing to accept this my failure as a reader rather than Fry's as an author. ( )

If I hadn't read "Moab is my Washpot" before reading "The Liar", I would probably have enjoyed it more. As it is, this book now seemed to be an odd mix of two separate books: an addition to Fry's school years autobiography, and a camp espionage caper. Not unlike Oscar Wilde, the author sprinkles bon mots throughout the text. The recondite vocabulary is sometimes exhilarating, sometimes tiring, typical for the "Look mama, no hands.." mentality of a new author keen to prove his virtuosity. On the whole, a bit unbalanced (the espionage story is pretty weak), but with beautiful descriptions of the sufferings of young Stephen. ( )

שעשוע נחמד שמשחק באמת ושקר. פרשנות על האופי הלאומי​ הבריטי או סתם שעשוע? מי יודע?​ ( )

Enjoyed the wit, language, and colourful windows into public school and Cambridge. Heard Fry's voice throughout. ( )