Quiet Chaos: A Novel

This a unique book in the sense that it may seem to be quite trite at times and as some have said difficult to understand certain sections. I like to think of it in the sense the James Joyce's "Ulysses" in his Molly Bloom soliloquy may be difficult to fathom at first. Yet this book does have a lyrically told story does does with the issue of grief, family, death and fate.How does one explain the death of a spouse at the which occurred at the same time when one is saving a stranger's life. What meaning is to be distilled from this and what fears does it cause (in this case an excessive protective response to his daughter). This book should be read carefully not merely to understand it but to enjoy the tale. It will surprise you and evoke a haunting series of thoughtful contemplation.

I loved the film version of this, so bought the book and am so glad I did. His writing in this book is really quite spectacular in a sort of stream of consciousness way. Very compelling, and the story is likewise original. Loved it.

I read in other reviews that this is beautifully written. That it may be but jings it's heavy going at times after the descriptive opening rescue scene. I see from the author's footnotes that it took him four and a half years to write it. It would have taken me that long to read it had I not resorted to skipping over some of his wandering ponderings.

Very odd movie. I nevertheless liked it.I must admit, I did not understand the subplot with his job.The hero looses his wife (she dies) and he seems to be totally lost. He reacts by taking his daughter to school everyday and he stays in the park adjacent to the school. He does this everyday and gets to know the characters frequenting the park. Instead of loosing his jobs, the bosses who are considering a merger come to the park and discuss the merger with him. You get to know the intricacies of the people involved in the desision process. Ultimately a decision is made and he benefits without really involving himself in any recommendations.I did not quite get the whole movie so I bought the book and after reading it, I got more information but I was still lost. Maybe it is a culture difference situation.In spite of the above, I liked the movie very much and have watched it a couple more time.I recommend it very much.

Insightful and moving. A book about being honest with yourself, moving past your personal indulgences and immaturities, trying to see things clearly. A challenging read.