I just finished reading an amazing book called Let the Great World Spin by Colum McCann, an Irish author. The story is set in New York City on one day in August 1974--the day that a tightrope walker actually walked a cable between the World Trade Center towers. McCann creates a myriad of characters from all walks of life: a priest living in the projects in the Bronx, his brother who arrives from Ireland, grieving mothers from different socioeconomic backgrounds who lost their sons in the Vietnam war, some original computer hackers, a judge whose hasty decision sets in motion bizarre and tragic events, and the city of New York is itself personified. All are brought together in different ways on one day as McCunn weaves his intricate but very human tale. This is a story about loss, longing, friendship, and chance. In my opinion this novel is a work of literary merit, and I highly recommend it to those who like to follow a complex plot with diverse and daring characters.
Shelah Brown