Staring At the Sun

Whether it is actually possible for the pilot of a plane changing altitude rapidly during the dawn to see the sun rise twice I don't actually know, although it sounds very unlikely to me. However that is the theme with which this story starts and ends. The start and end are very neatly tied together, and so indeed are all the various strands of the plot. Clever and deft workmanship of this kind is what I have learned to expect... Read Full Review

I read this book whilst living in Berlin shortlly after the wall went down. Perhaps this time period influenced my views of the book, however, I loved it. (I am actually looking for a British copy at the moment) being such a long time ago, I do not remember a lot of specifics regarding the story, just the effects which it had on me. I do however remember the wonderful imagery of the pilot flying into the sun. Being a World... Read Full Review

I could write a deeply analytical critique on the book, but frankly, I don't think it is necessary. Staring at the Sun speaks for itself. It is an essential book for the modern reader. Julian Barnes has the most profound and simply put insights on just about anything from the most abstruse to the most mundane of topics, especially in the most fundamental aspects of life: sex and death. Get it now!

There are some questions that men and women have been asking since questions were formed and given their name. And for these questions there still are no answers, no proof that a person who has fears can rely on, can take absolute unconditional comfort in. For me this is what Mr. Julian Barnes was addressing in his book, "Staring Into The Sun", for you it may be different, but I believe you will share the enjoyment I had.This... Read Full Review

What is real? Is reality a notion that can be conceived by thinking? Or is it a judgment that is formed in mind, and is enhanced, intensified by five senses? How can one talk about a basic definition of reality? Is it likely to think that there may be multiple perceptions of reality, each of them dissimilar and variable? Can a language, which is defined by specific rules and relations, express this multiplicity which is devoid... Read Full Review