Interesting overview of Michael Chabon, as science fiction writer at i09. Apparently it was peer pressure that made him into a literary writer (and eventual pulitzer prize winner). Anyone who's ever sat through a university level creative writing seminar knows how worthless and counterproductive the whole process can be. The term "group-think" isn't nearly strong enough.
In spite of all that, he's managed to come out of his shell and the Yiddish Policeman's Union has already picked up the Nebula, and is nominated for the Hugo so he's building up his Science Fiction credentials.
My problem with the book is not the science fiction/alternate history premise, which is very good, but that it isn't a very convincing detective novel. From the start the mystery story piles up lead upon lead, coincidence on revelation, starting, halting, starting again, until you're not sure who did what to whom or why, or why it mattered in the first place. The book's real strength is Chabon's literary skills, which keep the characters alive and interesting enough to overcome the plot mechanics. This is particularly true of the relationship story involving Landsman and his ex-wife, which is very moving and real.
So perhaps it's a good thing after all that he spent his time writing character based fiction from the start. I'm not sure he would be as good as he is if he'd spent his time writing high-concept, low character sci-fi and horror stories.
In spite of all that, he's managed to come out of his shell and the Yiddish Policeman's Union has already picked up the Nebula, and is nominated for the Hugo so he's building up his Science Fiction credentials.
My problem with the book is not the science fiction/alternate history premise, which is very good, but that it isn't a very convincing detective novel. From the start the mystery story piles up lead upon lead, coincidence on revelation, starting, halting, starting again, until you're not sure who did what to whom or why, or why it mattered in the first place. The book's real strength is Chabon's literary skills, which keep the characters alive and interesting enough to overcome the plot mechanics. This is particularly true of the relationship story involving Landsman and his ex-wife, which is very moving and real.
So perhaps it's a good thing after all that he spent his time writing character based fiction from the start. I'm not sure he would be as good as he is if he'd spent his time writing high-concept, low character sci-fi and horror stories.
