Guest Review | The Universe Versus Alex Woods | Gavin Extence
Image via Goodreads
Alex Woods is a wanted man. We’re first introduced to him as
his car is stopped at the UK border, Dover. His car just happens to contain a
bag of pot and the ashes of a dead man. Alex’s crime is unclear, but what is
clear is that it’s big news.
The story, told from the perspective of Alex, then flashes
back to when he was five and had his first taste of infamy. Alex is hit by a
solid metal meteor that comes crashing through his bathroom ceiling. Hitting
him square on the head, the chances of this happening, never mind him
surviving, are extremely low so when he does he feels as though the universe
has picked him out for something. And fate is an important part of The Universe Versus Alex Woods.
Circumstances set in motion by the astral mishap lead Alex to meet Mr Peterson,
who, as it happens, becomes one of the most important people in Alex’s life.
As in most young and old buddy stories (think Pixar’s Up) Mr Peterson is a reluctant partner. He
is grumpy, a bit of a loner and extremely set in his ways but Alex is
undeterred and soon a shared love of reading bonds them. Mr Peterson introduces
Alex to the works of Kurt Vonnegut which take on significant meaning in their
relationship. Gavin Extence has very cleverly used the works and symbolism of
Vonnegut to imbue The Universe Versus
Alex Woods with meaning. The reader is allowed to contemplate the
significance of the references without it being forced or heavy-handed.
The Universe Versus
Alex Woods certainly tackles some challenging and controversial subjects.
Mr Peterson falls ill and Alex is forced to consider what it means to be able
to live a life of quality and to be in control of your own destiny. At its core, The Universe Versus is about life but due to Alex’s narrative
voice, it never falls into the overly ponderous category. Due to his accident
and “alternative” upbringing, Alex has a unique perspective on life. He is
bookish, logical and has learnt a high level of self –discipline so the emotion
and lack of control of Mr Peterson’s situation presents him with a huge
challenge.
Gavin Extence has written a spectacular debut in The Universe Versus Alex Woods. Alex is
a truly unique hero, elevating the tried and tested coming of age story with
intelligence, determination and fierce loyalty. Touching, humorous and
thought-provoking, you can help but be pulled in by this novel to the very end,
and what feels like only the beginning of the remarkable life of Alex Woods.
This post was written by guest reviewer Ali who blogs over at AlleyHope.com
Wow, this sounds incredible. I like the comparisons to Up, but with the added elements of crime and mystery. I'll be keeping my eyes pealed for this one. Great review. :)
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