On Chesil Beach
By Ian McEwan
How can a novel be both hilarious and utterly cringe-worthy, stark and sentimental, playful and tragic? Ian McEwan’s tale of a single day in the lives of a newlywed couple and the ripple effect it causes is a wonderful vignette in his unique style. If this is your introduction to McEwan, you will be hooked; if you’re not, know that this is one of his very best.
How can a novel be both hilarious and utterly cringe-worthy, stark and sentimental, playful and tragic? Ian McEwan’s tale of a single day in the lives of a newlywed couple and the ripple effect it causes is a wonderful vignette in his unique style. If this is your introduction to McEwan, you will be hooked; if you’re not, know that this is one of his very best.
Review by Beth Williams