Of all the books I've read this year it's come down to either The Post Birthday World or Middlesex as my favorite. I picked this one up based on high praises given by Sarah Dessen (my favorite YA author) who is also the reason why I bought Middlesex. The way Sarah briefly explained things in her blog, just the idea of the book's structure got me interested. Even though I had high expectations from the beginning, I'd never imagined Birthday would end up so poignant and enjoyable.
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The plot of the book goes as follows: Irina lives in London with Lawrence, her 10 year partner; they have successful careers and a good relationship. Lawrence has a friend named Ramsey, famous for playing snooker (a competative sport resembling pool in Europe). Every year Lawrence and Irina go to dinner with Ramsey to celebrate his birthday. (Here's where the title of the book comes in... )
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This year Lawrence is out of town for Ramsey's birthday so Irina agrees to attend the celebration solo. That night Ramsey and Irina have a great time together at the restaurant, and she ends up (innocently) going back to his place for a tour of his mansion. As flirtatious chemistry begins to surge back and forth between them, Irina finds herself at a crossroads when they come at an important moment. Irina has to make a choice: To kiss Ramsey or not.
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In the first version of that night, Irina does not kiss Ramsey and they do not pursue a relationship. She returns home and continues life as usual with Lawrence. But then, Shriver opens the next chapter and we relive the say moment except with a different out come: Irina does kiss Ramsey and their lives are changed forever. It's a lot like the whole butterfly effect theory.
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For the remainder of the novel, Shriver channels back and forth between Irina's life as it would be with and without the kiss. Each chapter is doubled from that point on (i.e. 2 chapter fives, sixes, etc), and each pair takes place during the same time frame. It really is a fascinating structure and cleverly done. (Kind of reminds me of those "choose your own adventure books" from when I was a kid.) What's even more interesting is how distinct events seem to intersect the two versions of Irina's life. For example, we hear about Princess Diana's death as well as 9/11 in both of Irina's life paths, but from two very different perspectives. There are many more interesting intersections throughout the novel, but they would give too much away if I mentioned them.
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I just can't explain how compelling this book was for me. Once I got passed the set up and Irina's life gradually propelled itself into two different directions, I couldn't put it down. The message at the end of the novel also had a real affect on me. Though it wasn't a huge revolutionary thought, it still breathed such true knowledge about life. I wish I could talk about it, but again, I don't want to be a spoiler.
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Also, it's important to note that this book is not chic-lit material by any means. Lionel Shriver is a STUPENDOUS writer. In fact, the opening chapter intimidated me so much that I half considered putting the book down and cutting my losses. I'm so glad I didn't. In fact, I think I'll try reading it again someday soon because it was just that impressive.
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So check it out. And while you're at it, read Middlesex, too. Then we can discuss afterwards, which is the better novel.
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