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The Character of Rain

By Amélie Nothomb
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3.96 goodreads logo

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Check link for latest rating. ( 20,909 ratings, 2,062 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Character of Rain by Amélie Nothomb is a philosophical exploration of a child's early consciousness and the world from a baby's perspective. Set in Japan, it delves into existential themes as the young protagonist navigates family dynamics and cultural nuances. It’s a fascinating journey through the lens of a child who slowly comes to terms with existence and individuality.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this novel if you appreciate beautifully written, introspective stories that explore themes of identity and cultural dislocation. With a blend of wit and sensitivity, the book delves into the early perceptions of life from a child's perspective, set against the backdrop of Japan. It's perfect for those who enjoy a nuanced and philosophical look at the world through a unique literary lens.

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In 'The Character of Rain', we learn that divinity is a difficult thing from which to recover, particularly if, like the child in this story, you have spent the first two and a half years of life in a nearly vegetative state.

The Character of Rain by Amélie Nothomb: 'Nothomb potently distils from the state of infancy the intensity of beginnings, the precariousness, the trailed clouds of glory - that grow indistinct as childhood approaches.' (New York Times)

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Japanese believe that until the age of three, children are gods, each one a 'Lord Child'. On their third birthday, they fall from grace and join the rest of humanity.

Narrated by a child—from the age of two and a half up until her third birthday—this novel reveals that the move from deity to ordinary member of the human race can be a very difficult thing indeed from which to recover.

The Character of Rain explores this profound transition with sensitivity and insight, highlighting the complexities of early childhood perception and identity.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Character of Rain is praised for its imaginative portrayal of the inner life of infancy. Critics highlight Amélie Nothomb's ability to capture the wonder and intensity of early childhood experiences, creating a vivid and enchanting narrative.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780571220496

Publisher: Faber & Faber

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 November 2004

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Faber & Faber

Edition: Main

Contributors:

  • Translated by Timothy Bent
  • Translated by Timothy Bent
  • Translated by Timothy Bent

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 11.0mm

Width: 200.0mm

Height: 128.0mm

Weight: 115g

Pages: 144

Collections

Amelie Nothomb Fiction General Fiction Literary Fiction

About the Author

Belgian by nationality, Am lie Nothomb was born in Kobe, Japan, and currently lives in Paris. Described by Time Magazine as 'prolific and ingenious', she is the best-selling author of thirteen novels, translated into thirty languages. Fear and Trembling won the Grand Prix of the Acad mie Fran aise and the Prix Internet du Livre. The Book of Proper Names was originally published in France, as Robert Des Noms Propres, where it has sold over 250,000 copies.

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