Sam Clayman is a bit annoyed when his cousin from the old country, Josef Kavalier, shows up one night unannounced (at least to him). However, when he sees Joe's talent as an artist, his apprehension disappears and an idea sparks in Sam's head. Finally, he can make the comic books he's dreamed of. So begins the adventures of Kavalier and Clay and the Escapist...

This was a fantastic book. It really sucks you in right from the start. Chabon's talent as a writer is immense. Every sentence is gorgeous but subtly so. I didn't feel hit over the head like you sometimes can with authors ("look at my sentences, aren't they glorious???") - everything just flowed nicely and fit together well and was wonderfully written. The characters are brilliant as well. There was not a one that I felt was lacking. They were all interesting and well-developed and vivid. I think my favorite thing about the book was how seamlessly the story of Kavalier and Clay fit into actual history. I love when authors are able to insert real people and events without making it feel hokey or like a ploy. That ability is something I greatly admire. Chabon clearly did his research prior to writing this novel because every juxtaposition of fact and fiction seems effortless. I will definitely read more by Chabon. A book incredibly deserving of its Pulitzer. ( )

An incredible read - a marvellous subject (comic books in the 40s and 50s); an engaging cast of characters; and irresistable storytelling from Michael Chabon. Although not without its dark side, this is a joyous tale and recalls Wordsworth's words about the dawn of revolutionary times in Europe : "Bliss was it that dawn to be alive/But to be young was very heaven". ( )

Just well-formed, in every way. ( )

I picked this up from the library after a friend mentioned in conversation that she had enjoyed it. I found I really liked Chabon's prose. He has a knack for metaphor that brings the characters and their emotions to life with the same vivid quality as the comic books that are so important to the story. As someone who enjoys reading a lot of fantasy, science fiction, what-have-you, I was struck by the theme of escapism in this novel. I also liked the thoughtful and interesting way Chabon weaves historical detail into the story, especially with regards to the comic book industry in the heyday of the superhero. I'd recommend this book to anyone and everyone who has ever entertained an escape fantasy of their own, even for a moment. ( )

"Author Michael Chabon (who, it seems, also wrote the book Wonder Boys) essentually treats us to an extensive history of the Golden Age, all seen through the eyes of these two young men who, as we are told through a plethora of referential comments, are later acknowledged as two of the greatest innovators of comic storytelling. Right up there with Eisner and Gaines.

Chabon takes some liberties with fact, but they're forgivable. His manipulation of the facts succeeds with creating a credible atmosphere for these two young men to find love and success. "

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