Catalogue

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Title:	History of Silence, A
Authors:	Jones, Lloyd
Genre:	Non Fiction: New Zealand
Pages:	268
Year:	2013
Publisher:	Penguin Books
Language:	English
Description:	As Christchurch lies in ruins after the catastrophic earthquake of February 2011, Lloyd Jones begins a search for his past, a search that takes him through childhood memories of puzzling events to Pembroke Dock in Wales, and finally to the discovery of a devastating court transcript. On this extraordinary journey, he pieces together the fragments of a story that has been buried in his family for a lifetime. A mother who gave up her daughter, a naval captain drowned at sea, a marriage to save a child. And a truth that changes everything. [Taken from book cover.] Comments from Groups: Well written with lovely poetic language. It's a book that's best to read in larger chunks, not a 'dip into' novel. A really interesting history of the author's family background, unearthed by the Christchurch earthquake events. Nelson 020 'A History of Silence' was considered a great read by all members. We all enjoyed a lively discussion as there were so many aspects and connections with our own lives, as we are around the same age group. An excellent read that we would happily recommend. Upper Hutt 002 An interesting meandering memoir. It raised questions about social stigmas, and what could possibly cause such silence in today's society. We felt the links to the Christchurch earthquakes were a little tenuous and unnecessary. Greytown 004 An unusual and beautiful 'memoir' of a family. We all found this book taking us on another literary journey. We found Lloyd Jones' use of words quite moving in many places. Greatly enjoyed. Highly recommended. Wellington 041 Our group wouldn't choose this as a 'top read'. We enjoyed the family history that Lloyd Jones shares, but felt the Christchurch (earthquakes) story was worth its own book. The book did, however, create a very lively discussion among our members, as stories of 'silence' from their own family trees were shared. Gore 007 Most of our group enjoyed the lyrical nature of Jones' memoir, but others felt he over-stretched the metaphor of the broken family and the broken city of Christchurch post earthquake. All in all we would recommend any of his books. Raumati 001
Categories:	Non-fiction NZ, Biography, Grief/loss, Relationships, Social commentary/perspectives, Blind Low Vision library

Reviews

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By: CHCH 010		2024-01-23 11:29:39

This book provided one of the longest discussions our group have shared. Most of us related to Jones' experiences of person and place, particularly in Wellington and Christchurch, as well as with many relationships and events. It was not the easiest read due to the regularly changing time and place but it was easier to follow as it proceeded, and proved worthwhile.

By: QUEEN 006		2019-11-01 14:34:58

A book much admired for its style of writing and very innovative way it recounts the family history.

By: PALMN 001		2019-07-03 13:11:40

This story resulted in a very mixed reaction from our members - from "really enjoyed it" to "only got half way through it and gave up". However, a good discussion was had on families in general and our own experiences.

By: PARAPA 001		2019-07-03 13:06:50

This is a book worth reading and we would recommend it. The events of the Christchurch earthquakes and the family narrative of the Jones family had much in common. The book was moving and leads one to examine one's own family history and its myths. Our discussion was interesting and personal stories were shared.

By: CHCH 066		2019-07-03 13:03:16

It did stimulate a lot of thinking and revelations. Very much appreciated by all.

By: THAM 005		2019-07-03 12:58:12

This book divided the group into those who found it tedious and didn't bother finishing it, to others who enjoyed it so much they had read it twice. All agreed there were some pearls but for many of us they were insufficient to hold interest.

By: WELL 120		2019-07-03 12:52:07

Lloyd Jones has a fine style and this was appreciated. However, some found the plot development rather confusing until we reached the fascinating revelations about Maud. As an example of women's lives at that time, it is enlightening and sad. Some thought that the link between the Christchurch earthquake and Lloyd's family history was tenuous.

By: LEITH 001		2019-07-03 12:48:17

Generally enjoyed by the group. Interesting discussion around "family secrets"; what does one's family need to know

By: PIOPIO 001		2019-06-28 12:01:34

This unusual, fragmented memoir was enjoyed by all, a lot more than expected. It was interesting as the author unearthed aspects of his family's past but enjoyed most was the poetic launguage and the twists and turns as information was revealed. Good discussion particularly as members related to experiences within their own families and friends.

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