Zigzag Street

I've been a Nick Earls fan for a long time, but I recently picked up Zigzag Street again and was reminded what a great read it is. Witty, crazy, fast-paced dialogue makes the characters come alive, and no one can capture the inner musings of a tragic, heart-broken, twenty-something quite like Nick Earls. I also love how vividly he writes about Brisbane - lots of places and street names to recognise and navigate your way around. I've lived in Brisbane for about four years and love it here. I also happen to pass the end of Zigzag St on the bus on the way to work everyday, which just makes this book that extra little bit more special. So many great lines in the novel, but even the one on the front cover is probably enough to make you pick show more it up and want to keep reading. "Here I am, on a work day of some importance, riding out of town in a cab with a babe I've just concussed with footwear." Enjoy! show less

I had heard a lot about Nick Earls; all good and a tv interview showed him to be funny in person, so I had high hopes for "Zigzag Street", the first (and only) Earls tome I have read.

The fact that "Zigzag Street" remains the only Earls book I have read gives away the fact that I was somewhat underwhelmed by the book. It's amiable enough, with a few lines that led to smiles but nothing to indicate that Earls is the worthy recipient of the praise lavished upon him.

It's a basic boy meets girl plot, and you can date its publication by the fact the lead male character kills time at work by playing a computer game rather than surfing the internet. Still, it's better than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick.

So funny in parts it brings tears to your eyes, especially the dialogue between the two friends. A little flat in parts but very good.

Seriously one of my favourite books.
Have read it over and over.
Hurt myself laughing each time.
I identify with this book because it was written by a local author who is well educated, yet has a perchant for toilet humour.
I love the gags in it. His characters are always brilliant and the scenarios he describes are sooo funny.
I would recommend this to anyone. It's truly great. Nick Earls is a legend!

I was quite young when I read this book but I still remember reading this book on the bus and laughing out loud. The person next to me asked me for the name of the book so they could buy it.