The Width of the Sea

If I could write a novel it would read like this one does. Read this book and you will not be dissapointed.

Michelle Chalfoun's second book is an excellent marine adventure. The book is written from the point of view of several residents of a New England fishing village. The characters are three-dimensional and lovable, despite their human flaws. Their attitudes, actions, and language reflect Chalfoun's knowledge of the fishing industry. We discussed this book in our monthly book club and we thoroughly enjoyed this high quality novel.

I loved this book! Some of this is personal bias, as I happen to live in a town on the Maine Coast, where the book is set. However, I don't think that should lessen its appeal to other readers. Anyone who lives in a town which has been historically blue collar industry, but is being transformed into a "tourist destination" due to economic variables can relate to the plot. It is really all about a town struggling with the transition from "old money" to "new money", and how this process tears at the social fabric of that town.The writing style reminded me of something of a cross between Hemingway and Tim O'brien: beautiful descriptions of the lanscape (or seascape) combined with very deep and believable character development. The characters are defined more by their interaction as opposed to an overt description.My final comment is that other publishers should take a look at this book's packaging! This was a book that stood out on the shelf and made me pick it up. From the beautiful, somewhat eerie cover photo, to the intriguing title. Upon reading that the author had indeed worked aboard fishing vessels, I figured I'd take a chance on it, and am so glad that I did. This book is now making the rounds with many of my neighbors, with similar comments. I will go out and buy her first book "Roustabout" (she has also worked as a circus routabout).In short, highly recommended !!!!!!