Not one word is wasted or misplaced in this subtle, yet disturbing 2005 novel by Kazuo Ishiguro, author of the Booker Prize winning "Remains of the Day."
Ishiguro's sixth novel, Never Let Me Go, tells the story of three friends growing up in a 1990s English boarding school. The tale is narrated by Kathy H, a 31-year old "carer" who is looking back over her school days and her friendship here and later with Tommy D. and Ruth. From the very beginning of the story there's an undercurrent of something left unsaid. It's just out of reach -- both for the reader and for the children at the school.
"Told, but not Told"
Like the students at Hailsham, the reader glimpses the truth about these "special" children, but can't quite make out -- or does want to understand -- the whole of the situation. In the later part of the book, Kathy H embarks on the second phase of her life, that of a "donor," and the truth of that idyllic school in the Cotswolds becomes horribly apparent.
Modern Writing at its Best
Like his 1989 Booker-award-winning Remains of the Day, this novel is a carefully crafted, elegantly written book. It is the kind of book other writers envy, where every word is precisely placed for maximum effect. As in Remains of the Day, emotions are hinted at, but never exposed. In the end, Never Let Me Go, offers up a terrible truth and a scenario that is all too believable in our 21st century.
Awards for Never Let Me Go
In addition to being named Time Magazine's "Novel of the Year" in 2005, Never Let Me Go was the runner up for the prestigious Booker Prize and for the 2006 Arthur C. Clarke award.
About Kazuo Ishiguro
Kazuo Ishiguro is a British author of Japanese descent. In addition to Remains of the Day, his previous works include A Pale View of Hills, When We Were Orphans, and The Unconsoled. He lives in London with his wife and daughter.
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