Breath by Tim Winton
Breath is a coming-of-age novel that explores the themes of risk-taking, adolescence, and finding a balance between being ordinary and extraordinary.
The story takes place on the wild coast of Western Australia, where two barely adolescent boys fall under the spell of veteran big-wave surfer Sando. Together they form an odd but elite trio, testing their limits against nature and pushing themselves to the extreme in both sports and emotions.
The novel is told from the perspective of the narrator’s present life as a paramedic, reflecting on how his adolescent experiences with Sando, Loonie, and Eva indelibly influenced his life. Breath is a rich and atmospheric tale that touches upon important themes of death, life, breathing, and its absence, while looking dispassionately upon the relentless pursuit of thrills, pleasure, sex, and status.
What I Liked
Solid novel – beautiful setting.
What I Did Not Like
Nothing – good novel. I’ve read several books by this author. I do think it would help to be Australian to fully appreciate some of his references.
- Solid novel with a beautiful setting
- Explores important themes of adolescence and risk-taking
- Rich and atmospheric storytelling
- Nothing - good novel.