Child 44

For book club this month we read Child 44 by Tom Rob Smith and, I have to admit...this is one of my new favorite books. It is set in Stalinist Russia following World War II, and it is a fascinating portrayal of communism's flaws. It describes a "Utopian" society where crime does not exist, and where all members of the society present a facade of perfect harmony and joy...due to their fear of the State. Then, the unthinkable happens...several crimes lead a detective to believe that the State might not be as perfect as he once thought. But to even think that the State is not perfect puts this detective and everyone he knows and loves in danger of being accused of treason. In addition to the murder mystery aspect of this novel, there is a tragic (and unexpected) love story that made me believe in love again.

This is Smith's literary debut, and I am very impressed with his writing style. He develops his characters in such a way that you care deeply about each and every one. His use of italics instead of quotes to identify speech helps one to realize that conversation is not the central aspect of Smith's writing...which is refreshing. The very first chapter is so compelling that you just want to read more...I could not put this book down. I just read that Ridley Scott has optioned this book as a film, and I can't wait to find out more about it! The villain in this novel is chilling, and I would compare him to Anton Chigurh in No Country for Old Men (who I personally feel is the greatest villain of all time...even better than Hannibal Lecter!). Ridley Scott loves Russell Crowe, and he can definitely play a "hard A" that has many endearing qualities (think LA Confidential), but he might be a little old to play this part. I can see Christian Bale as the villain, but I think he is too pretty to carry it off. Ideally, I would have Kevin Spacey in that role, but again, he's too old. I'll keep thinking about it...because I'm sure Ridley wants my opinions! I'm giving this book five pigs...that does not happen very much!