Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates

Frank and April Wheeler seem like they have it all - a nice house in the suburbs and two kids. He works at an office job and she stays home with the kids. And yet, they are discontent. He's bored at his job and she never achieved her dream of becoming an actor.

They decide to leave it all behind and move to France with their kids to start over again. April will work and Frank will spend time figuring out who he is and what he wants. And then their plan unravels.

I enjoyed this one. The story, even though it takes place in the 1950s, seems like it could describe a couple living in today's world - the desperation, the lack of communication, the unspoken discontents. Which is why it is a tad uncomfortable.

I haven't seen the movie. I'm not sure if I will since the book was complete enough in itself and I have it all pictured in my mind.

1 comment:

Emily Gee-Clark said...

At your recommendation, I read this. An well-written story although I wanted some Prozac after finishing. Also saw the movie, which follows the book pretty faithfully. The story is disturbing and painful but it made me consider important questions about the quality of life in the suburbs. I think only people who dare to ask these important questions will "get" the book.